Stellar Structure and the Interstellar Medium

Catalog description

This class is an introduction to the physics of stars and their environment. The course covers the fundamental physics that set the physical properties of stars, such as their luminosity, size, spectral properties and how these quantities evolve with time. In addition, it includes a study of the physics that takes place in the gaseous environment surrounding stars, the InterStellar Medium (ISM). The ISM is very important because it contains a wealth of information on the evolutionary history of galaxies, their composition, formation and future. Prerequisites: PHYS 0270 , PHYS 0470 , or instructor permission. PHYS 1530 (perhaps taken concurrently) is strongly recommended but not required.