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PHYC40360

Academic Year 2023/2024

Theoretical Astrophysics (PHYC40360)

Subject:
Physics
College:
Science
School:
Physics
Level:
4 (Masters)
Credits:
5
Module Coordinator:
Professor Peter Duffy
Trimester:
Spring
Mode of Delivery:
On Campus
Internship Module:
No
How will I be graded?
Letter grades

Curricular information is subject to change.

Theoretical astrophysics is concerned with the application of the fundamental principles and equations of physics to solve astrophysical problems and to explain astronomical observations. This module covers the theory of radiative processes, astrophysical gas dynamics and an introduction to astrophysical plasmas. Radiative processes includes the equation of radiative transfer and the fundamental theory of radiation fields. The module will then specifically examine bremsstrahlung, synchrotron, Compton, inverse-Compton and line emission mechanisms. Gas dynamics includes basic principles, hydrostatics, waves, shock fronts, accretion, outflows, instabilities and an introduction to plasma physics. These topics will be applied to an extensive range of astronomical problems and observations; including the hot big bang model, aspects of stellar structure and evolution, compact objects, the interstellar medium and high energy astrophysics.

About this Module

Learning Outcomes:

On successful completion of this module a student will (1) understand the principles of astrophysical radiative processes and gas dynamics, (2) understand how fundamental areas of physics combine in different astrophysical settings, (3) solve problems in radiative processes and gas dydnamics and (4) explain select astronomical observations using the tools of theoretical astrophysics.

Student Effort Hours:
Student Effort Type Hours
Specified Learning Activities

20

Autonomous Student Learning

60

Lectures

30

Tutorial

6

Total

116


Approaches to Teaching and Learning:
Lectures/Reflective learning/Enquiry and problem based learning

Requirements, Exclusions and Recommendations

Not applicable to this module.


Module Requisites and Incompatibles
Not applicable to this module.
 

Assessment Strategy
Description Timing Open Book Exam Component Scale Must Pass Component % of Final Grade In Module Component Repeat Offered
Class Test: Open-book, in-class test Week 7 n/a Standard conversion grade scale 40% No
20
No
Continuous Assessment: Homework problems Throughout the Trimester n/a Standard conversion grade scale 40% No
20
No
Examination: End of semester written exam 2 hour End of Trimester Exam No Standard conversion grade scale 40% No
60
No

Carry forward of passed components
No
 

Resit In Terminal Exam
Autumn Yes - 2 Hour
Please see Student Jargon Buster for more information about remediation types and timing. 

Feedback Strategy/Strategies

• Feedback individually to students, post-assessment
• Group/class feedback, post-assessment

How will my Feedback be Delivered?

Not yet recorded.