The course consist of (1) an introduction on the main processes of emission and absorption of the electromagnetic radiation relevant in astrophysics, and (2) a general treatment of the structure stars, of their physical processes of energy production, transport and radiation, with a final overview of stellar evolution.
G. Rybicki, A. Lightman "Radiative Processes in Astrophysics"
E. Landi degli Innocenti "Spettroscopia atomica e processi radiativi!"
E. Landi degli Innocenti "Fisica Solare"
Carroll & Ostlie "Introduction to Modern Astrophysics"
Learning Objectives
Understanding of the main radiation emission and absorption processes, relevant for the physical interpretation of astrophysical observations; understanding the main processes determining the structure and evolution of stars.
Prerequisites
3-years Laurea in physics
Teaching Methods
Lectures
Type of Assessment
Oral exam. The student will discuss two arguments chosen by the examiner.
The evaluation will be based on the scientific language used by the student, and by her/his comprehension of the physical and phenomenological aspects of the chosen arguments. More specific questions may be asked in order to further check the student's level of preparation.
Course program
Spectrum and polarization of electromagnetic waves. Emission from a moving charge. Thomson scattering, Rayleigh scattering. Free-free emission and absorption. Elements of atomic spectroscopy: selection rules, Saha equation, line broadening, photoelectric effect. Elements of molecular spectroscopy. Astrophysical examples and applications.
Fundamental equations of stellar structure. Polytropic Model. Equation of state in stars. Radiative transport, opacity. Convective transport, Schwarzschild criterion, mixing length theory. Energy production in stars, Gamow model. Production of heavy elements. Stellar evolution: interpretation of evolutionary paths in the HR diagram Properties and dimensions of white dwarfs. Properties of neutron stars. Pulsars: observational properties, model of rotating dipole.