AS4012
The Physics of Nebulae and Stars 2
2017-2018
15
7
SCQF level 10
2
Academic year(s): 2017-2018
SCOTCAT credits : 15
ECTS credits : 7
Level : SCQF level 10
Semester: 2
Planned timetable:
This module develops the physics of stellar interiors and atmospheres from the basic equations of stellar structure introduced in AS2001/AS2101 using the radiative transfer concepts developed in Nebulae and Stars I. Topics include: the equation of state that provides pressure support at the high temperatures and densities found in normal and white-dwarf stars; the interaction of radiation with matter, both in terms of radiation-pressure support in super-massive stars and in terms of the role of opacity in controlling the flow of energy from the stellar interior to the surface; the equation of radiative transfer and the effects of local temperatures, pressures and velocity fields on the continuum and line absorption profiles in the emergent spectrum. Computer-aided tutorial exercises illustrate the computational schemes that represent one of the triumphs of late twentieth-century physics, in their ability to predict the observable properties of a star from its radius and luminosity, which in turn are determined by its mass, age and chemical composition.
Pre-requisite(s): Before taking this module you must pass AS4011
Anti-requisite(s): You cannot take this module if you take AS4023 or take AS3015
Weekly contact: 3 lectures occasionally replaced by whole-group tutorials.
Scheduled learning hours: 32
Guided independent study hours: 118
As used by St Andrews: 2-hour Written Examination = 75%, Coursework = 25%
As defined by QAA
Written examinations : 75%
Practical examinations : 0%
Coursework: 25%
Re-assessment: Oral Re-assessment, capped at grade 7
Please see also the information in the School’s Handbook for Honours modules available via st-andrews.ac.uk/physics/staff_students/timetables.php. This link also gives access to timetables for the modules.
