The course aims to provide a phenomenological introduction to modern astrophysics and cosmology in particular by showing the application to the context of the phenomena of the cosmos of different branches of classical and modern physics, in order to constitute a solid basis for students interested in a career in these disciplines, while providing knowledge of phenomena and methods for students interested in pursuing other areas of physics.
Broad knowledge of the most important phenomena of astrophysics and cosmology
At the end of the course the student will have knowledge regarding: units of measurement and observables in use; mechanisms of production of electromagnetic waves of different energies in astrophysical phenomena; interaction and propagation of photons in the cosmos and their detection (with hints to other messengers); elements of observational astronomy; stellar physics (equilibrium and various phases of stellar evolution, multiple systems); planetary systems; interstellar medium; extra-galactic astrophysics; elements of general relativity and cosmology for the description of the evolution of the universe on a large scale. The students will acquire an understanding of the different astrophysical phenomena by applying the knowledge of the various branches of classical and modern physics (classical mechanics, thermodynamics, electromagnetism, optics, relativity, quantum mechanics, statistical physics, nuclear physics, particle physics) and will be informed on the lines of leading research of modern astrophysics and cosmology.
Classes with use of the black board and of slides (given in advance)
Observables and units of measurement of astrophysical / cosmological interest. Radiative transport. Electromagnetic radiation emission mechanisms from astrophysical sources and their detection (instrumentation and most relevant objects observable in the various bands) Stellar and galactic dynamics
Star balance conditions in the various evolutionary stages Star systems Planetary systems Interstellar medium Types and structures of galaxies Dark matter Active galaxies and super massive black holes
The universe on a large scale
Introduction to general relativity Evolutionary scenarios of the universe Thermal history of the universe: the cosmic background radiation Dark energy
To finish the course, if possible: activity (optional) with an optical telescope
Planning of an observational campaign for one of the objects studied during the course and possible data acquisition
Astrophysics for Physicists" by Arnab Rai Choudhuri"; "Invitation to Astrophysics" by T. Padmanabhan
"Modern Cosmology" di S. Dodelson
Ricevimento: Anytime, by previous request of appointment by email
SILVANO TOSI (President)
CARLA BIGGIO
MARCO PALLAVICINI
ALESSANDRO PETROLINI
MARCO RAVERI
FLAVIO GATTI (President Substitute)
II semester
Oral exam. 2 possibilities: questions by the committee or description of a project (realized in small groups)
Questions by the committee on the program and, in case, questions on the project.
The exam lasts about 30 minutes per student.
