MPhys Physics

Astrophysical Processes

To introduce a wide range of fundamental astrophysical processes and their role in modern astrophysics. These processes range from those which control the structure of the interstellar medium to those associated with supermassive black holes in the centre of galaxies. The observational signatures of these processes are identified, which cover the entire electromagnetic spectrum from radio to gamma-ray and include non-photonic tracers such as cosmic rays.  

On completion successful students will be able to: 

1.         
Explain fundamental physical processes, such as 

a) shock waves 

b) accretion 

c) radiative transfer 

d) he physical mechanisms controlling the ionisation and temperature of atoms, molecules and dust and the processes responsible for the formation of complex species in space   
 

2. Apply fundamental physical processes in contexts relevant in astrophysics

3. Describe the sky as seen across the electromagnetic spectrum and non-photonic messengers and the involved radiation mechanisms
 

4. Relate observations of a wide range of astrophysical sources to their physical conditions 

a) Introduction: observations and astrophysical processes

b) Absorption and emission: radiative transfer and blackbody radiation

c) Grains and molecules in space

d) Shocks waves, supernovae and supernova remnants

e) Spectral lines: their formation and diagnostics

f) The composition and dynamics of the ISM, heating/cooling mechanisms and ionisation

g) Non-thermal emission processes

h) Compact objects and accretion on neutron stars and black holes

i)  Supermassive black holes, and Active Galactic Nuclei

j) Multi-messenger astrophysics

Feedback will be offered to the cohort on the common difficulties on the weekly questions sheets, model answers will be issued.

Dyson, J.E. & Williams, D.A. The Physics of the Interstellar Medium (2nd ed.) (IOP Publishing)
Rosswog, S. & Bruggen, M. Introduction to High-Energy Astrophysics (CUP)