PX3145: Formation and Evolution of Stars
| School | Cardiff School of Physics & Astronomy |
| Department Code | PHYSX |
| Module Code | PX3145 |
| External Subject Code | 100414 |
| Number of Credits | 10 |
| Level | L6 |
| Language of Delivery | English |
| Module Leader | Dr Nicolas Peretto |
| Semester | Autumn Semester |
| Academic Year | 2013/4 |
Outline Description of Module
To introduce the basic physics of the interstellar medium and the processes involved in star formation.
To develop an understanding of the evolutionary stages of stars of different masses, with an emphasis on their post-main sequence evolution.
On completion of the module a student should be able to
Describe the properties of the interstellar medium and how these are observed.
Explain the basic physics involved in star formation and identify outstanding problems.
Describe the pre- and post- main sequence evolution of stars as a function of mass.
Describe, and account for using physical arguments, the basic properties of supernovae.
Describe the end-points of stellar evolution: white dwarf, neutron star, and black hole.
How the module will be delivered
Lectures 22 x 1 hr, Exercises.
Skills that will be practised and developed
Problem Solving. Mathematics. Investigative Skills. Analytical Skills.
How the module will be assessed
Examination 80%. Coursework 20%. [Examination duration: 2 hours]
Assessment Breakdown
| Type | % | Title | Duration(hrs) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Exam - Autumn Semester | 80 | Formation And Evolution Of Stars | 2 |
| Written Assessment | 20 | Formation And Evolution Of Stars | N/A |
Syllabus content
Introduction: Brief summary of stellar structure theory. Main sequence stars. Observable properties of stars.
The Interstellar Medium in the Galaxy: Location, spiral structure, effect on star formation, dust, gas and radiative processes.
Star Formation: Sites of star formation, the initial mass function. Gravitational instability. Pre-main sequence evolution. Young Stellar Objects.
Stellar Evolution: Timescales, Mass dependence. Critical processes.
Beyond the Main Sequence: post-main-sequence evolution; red giants, etc; planetary nebulae and supernovae, including Type 1a. Stellar remnants: white dwarfs, neutron stars.
Essential Reading and Resource List
An Introduction to the Theory of Stellar Structure and Evolution, D Prialnik, (Cambridge University press).
The Stars: Their Structure and Evolution, R Taylor (Cambridge University Press).