640-177 Stars and Galaxies

A familiarity with basic physical concepts will be assumed.

The application of scientific ideas to understanding objects halfway across the universe has been a great triumph of modern science. The constituents of our galaxy, in particular stars, pulsars, and supernovae, and the formation and evolution of stars and galaxies will be discussed. The final part of this subject will discuss the structures of different galaxies, the techniques used to study them, and in particular their central regions which sometimes include quasars. Particular emphasis will be given to the latest discoveries in these areas. Familiarity with basic physical concepts will be assumed.

Students completing this subject will be able to:

• explain the physical structure and life cycle of stars and galaxies; and

• solve quantitative problems using these principles.

In addition students will be able to:

• participate as an effective member of an astronomy laboratory and observing group;

• communicate their understanding of astronomy orally, in written form in lab classes, and in a multimedia environment through designing and answering web-based quizzes; and

• manage their time commitments to this subject in order to be prepared for regular lab classes as well as tests and the examination.

A 3-hour end-of semester written examination (65%); tests totalling up to two hours and/or written assignments during the semester, up to an equivalent of 2000 words (10%); laboratory work (25%). Students must complete both laboratory and assignment work satisfactorily to obtain a pass.

• R A Freedman and W J Kaufman, Universe. 6th edn, Freeman, 2002.