Sis info

Kursusnavn: Kompakte objekter og relativistisk astrofysik
Institut: NBI
Kontaktpersoner: Thomas Tauris, tlf. 48 24 29 28, e-mail. ttauris@astro.ku.dk
Undervisningsform: Forelæsninger ved Thomas Tauris, regneøvelser, studenterfremlæggelser, besøg på DTU space
Formål: A general introduction to the fascinating physics of compact objects and binary interactions.
Indhold: We introduce the theory of degenerate Fermi gases and apply it to simple equations of state for white dwarfs and neutron stars. We investigate the structure, cooling and evolution of white dwarfs and neutron stars (radio pulsars) and compare with observational properties. We analyse the formation, evolution and detection of X-ray binaries, including black holes and effects of supernovae and gamma-ray bursts. Finally, we discuss the nature and detection of gravitational waves.
Målbeskrivelse: The aim of the course is to understand the basic physics of compact objects and binary interactions and relate this knowledge to observations. The student is expected to:

demonstrate comprehensive knowledge of degenerate Fermi gases and equations-of-state
relate the theoretical structure and evolution of white dwarfs and neutron stars to observational properties
analyse the spin evolution of pulsars
explain how black holes are identified
analyse the full evolution of a binary system (from ZAMS to final compact objects)
explain the basic physics of binary interactions (especially accretion in X-ray binaries)
demonstrate knowledge about gravitational waves and their detection
review and commment on articles related to this topic
solve and understand various written exercises given during thhe course

The highest mark (12) is given for excellent exam performance that demonstrates full mastering of the above mentioned teaching goals. The grade 2 is given to a student who has achieved only minimally the course goals.

Lærebøger: Black holes, white Dwarfs and Neutron Stars, The physics of Compact Objects (Shapiro & Teukolsky, Wiley-Interscience).
Tilmelding: Tilmelding foregår på Selvbetjeningen i perioden 1.-10.
Fagligeforudsætninger: The course is aimed at Master/PhD-students and requires a bachelor degree in physics or astronomy.
Eksamensform: Mundtlig eksamen, 7-skalaen. Intern censur.
Reeksamen: Mundtlig eksamen
Eksamen: Mundtlig prøve den 26. juni 2009.
Reeksamen: Mundtlig prøve den 20. august 2009.
Bemærkninger: Kurset kan foregå på dansk, hvis alle kursusdeltagere taler dansk.
Undervisningssprog: Kun engelsk
Sidstredigeret: 2009-01-12T13:55:00