Elements of astronomy and nuclear astrophysics 1100-1ENEAIASJAD5
Short history of astronomy. Methods of astronomical observation.
The Big Bang theory and cosmological models. Structure and evolution of stars.
The abundance of chemical elements.
Nucleosynthesis:
- Thermonuclear reactions. Combustion of hydrogen in stars: p-p chain and CNO cycle. Helium burning. Combustion of heavier elements and explosive phenomena.
- Nucleosynthesis of elements heavier than iron: processes s, r and rp.
The role of neutrinos in astrophysical processes.
Type of course
Prerequisites (description)
Learning outcomes
Goal of the lecture is to familiarize students with the current knowledge of the universe, its structure, main objects and methods of study. In addition to understanding the basics of modern astronomy, students will know the history of the formation of the chemical elements, in particular the origin of heavy, long-lived radioactive isotopes present on Earth. The lecture will also introduce the relationship between modern physics and nuclear astrophysics.
Assessment criteria
zaliczenie na ocenę
Bibliography
- B.W. Carroll, D.A. Ostlie, An Introduction to Modern Astrophysics, Pearson
- C.E. Rolfs and W.S. Rodney, "Cauldrons in the Cosmos", the University of Chicago Press, 1988
- Ch. Iliadis, "Nuclear physics of stars", Wiley-VCH, 2007
Additional information
Information on level of this course, year of study and semester when the course unit is delivered, types and amount of class hours - can be found in course structure diagrams of apropriate study programmes. This course is related to the following study programmes:
- Nuclear Power Engineering and Nuclear Chemistry, full time 3 year programme leading to B. Sc. Degree
Additional information (registration calendar, class conductors, localization and schedules of classes), might be available in the USOSweb system: