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 | 2014/5 |
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).
Background Reading and Resource List
Not applicable.
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