Advanced Astrophysics

Astronomy describes the mechanics of the universe in the more basic language of physics, otherwise known as "astrophysics." Knowledge of black holes, quasars and extrasolar planets requires understanding of the physics underlying astrophysics. This book clarifies the fundamental principles of the field as well as the important astronomical phenomena it describes. Readers will gain a greater appreciation of the connection between physics and astronomy.

This 2003 book develops the basic underlying physics required for a fuller, richer understanding of the science of astrophysics and the important astronomical phenomena it describes. The cosmos manifests phenomena in which physics can appear in its most extreme, and therefore more insightful, forms. A proper understanding of phenomena like black holes, quasars and extrasolar planets requires that we understand the physics that underlies all of astrophysics. Consequently, developing astrophysical concepts from fundamental physics has the potential to achieve two goals: to derive a better understanding of astrophysical phenomena from first principles and to illuminate the physics from which the astrophysics is developed. To that end, astrophysical topics are grouped according to the relevant areas of physics. The book is ideal as a text for graduate and advanced undergraduate students as well as a reference for established researchers.

Part I. Classical Mechanics: 1. Orbital mechanics; 2. Galaxy dynamics; 3. Cosmic expansion and large-scale structure; Part II. Statistical Mechanics: 4. Overview of statistical mechanics; 5. The early universe; 6. Stellar structure and compact stars; Part III. Electromagnetism: 7. Radiation from accelerating charges; 8. Bremsstrahlung and synchrotron radiation; 9. High energy processes in astrophysics; 10. Electromagnetic wave propagation; Part IV. Quantum Mechanics: 11. The hydrogen atom; 12. The interaction of radiation with matter; 13. Atomic fine structure lines; 14. Atomic hyperfine structure lines; 15. Transitions involving multi-electron atoms; 16. Molecular lines in astrophysics.

This 2003 book develops the basic underlying physics required for an understanding of the science of astrophysics and the important astronomical phenomena it describes. Astrophysical topics are grouped according to the relevant areas of physics, ideal text for graduate and advanced undergraduate students as well as a reference for established researchers.