Star Cluster Dynamics and Evolution 4040-SZD-SCDE
The following lecture outline presents the general structure of the
course over 15 weeks.
The exact content, order of topics, and level of detail may be
adjusted during the semester depending on the background and
interests of the students.
Lecture 1. Introduction to star clusters and stellar dynamics:
Overview of star clusters; types of star clusters; basics of stellar
dynamics
Lecture 2. Collisionless stellar dynamics: Phase-space description;
distribution functions; virial theorem; equilibrium models.
Lecture 3. Collisional stellar dynamics: Two-body relaxation;
relaxation timescale; energy exchange; mass segregation.
Lecture 4. Numerical methods for star cluster evolution: Direct
N-body simulations; Monte Carlo methods; comparison of
numerical approaches.
Lecture 5. Thermodynamics of star clusters and simple cluster
models: Gravothermal evolution; core collapse; post-core-collapse
evolution; Plummer and King models.
Lecture 6. Internal physical processes in star cluster evolution:
Stellar and binary evolution; mass loss; formation of stellar
remnants, role of binaries in energy generation and interaction
Lecture 7. External physical processes in star cluster evolution:
Galactic tidal fields; tidal truncation and evaporation; disk and
bulge shocking.
Lecture 8. Observations of star clusters: Structural and kinematic
properties; surface brightness profiles; mass functions; binary
fractions.
Lecture 9. Astrophysical importance of star clusters: Star clusters
as factories of stellar exotica
Lecture 10. Black holes in star clusters: Formation and retention
of black holes; dynamical interactions; intermediate-mass black
hole formation
Lecture 11. Formation of gravitational-wave sources in star
clusters: Dynamical formation of compact object binaries that are
gravitational wave sources
Lecture 12. Summary and synthesis: Review of key concepts;
open problems; introduction to the take-home exam and group
assignment.
Lectures 13–14: Group work on the take-home exam and
preparation of results
Lecture 15: Oral presentation of results (final exam)
Course coordinators
Learning outcomes
Knowledge (P8S_WG): Students are able to understand the most
important processes involved in the evolution of star clusters.
They are able to distinguish between collisional and collisionless
dynamical systems. They understand the numerical methods and
techniques used in star cluster simulation codes. They are also
able to understand the astrophysical importance of star clusters in
producing gravitational wave sources and stellar exotica.
Practical Skills (P8S_UW, P8S_UK): Students are able to
analyze and draw meaningful astrophysical conclusions from
simulation data. Are able to write simple scripts and tools to
handle large data. The course will also require them to develop
their presentation and writing skills. Students will be able to read
and understand scientific papers on star cluster dynamics and
evolution.
Social Skills (P8S_KK): Students are able to understand the
astrophysical importance of studying star clusters and discuss
topics in stellar dynamics with experts and colleagues. Students
can critically evaluate arguments presented in scientific
discussions and papers, work effectively in groups on joint
projects, and collaboratively prepare and present scientific results.
Assessment criteria
The course is assessed through group work on a take-home exam
and an oral presentation of the results.
Assessment criteria include: 1) Correct understanding and
application of concepts in stellar dynamics and star cluster
evolution, 2) Quality of data analysis and interpretation of results,
3) Clarity, structure, and scientific quality of the presentation