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PHY3144 Galaxies and Observational Cosmology2007-2008Code: PHY3144Title: Galaxies and Observational Cosmology Instructors: Dr Suzanne Aigrain CATS credits: 10 ECTS credits: 5 Availability: unrestricted Level: 3 Pre-requisites: N/A Co-requisites: N/A Background Assumed: - Duration: Semester I Directed Study Time: 22 lectures Private Study Time: 78 hours Assessment Tasks Time: - Observation report: 2002/03 RJH AimsThis module covers the physics of large-scale objects in the universe from star clusters, galaxies and quasars to the structure of the universe itself. The fascination that these objects hold is due in part to the enormous range of physical processes which play a role in their formation and evolution including Newtonian and general relativistic gravitation, fluid dynamics, magnetic fields, radiation, and nucleosynthesis. These objects are studied at a more advanced level than in PHY2019 and the course is intended to complement PHY3142 which covers the small-scale universe (e.g. stellar astrophysics). Many of the topics discussed are applicable to a wide range of astrophysical processes. For example, a significant fraction of the course covers gravitational dynamics which is applicable to star formation, the evolution of star clusters, galaxies, clusters of galaxies, and the formation of large-scale structure in the universe. Specific aims of the module are for students to: (1) develop a detailed knowledge of the physical processes involved in the formation and evolution of star clusters, galaxies and the universe; (2) be able to apply this knowledge to calculate the evolution of some of the simpler systems and qualitatively understand the complex systems. Intended Learning OutcomesStudents should be able to: Module Specific Skills
Discipline Specific Skills
Personal and Key Skills
Learning and Teaching MethodsLectures (20×1hr), guided reading, and problems classes (2×1hr). AssignmentsProblem sheets to be completed as homework. AssessmentOne 90-minute examination (100%). Syllabus Plan and Content
Core TextNot applicableSupplementary Text(s)(1999), Dynamics of Galaxies, Cambridge University Press, ISBN 0-521-47855-3 (UL: 523.112 BER)(1988), Galactic Dynamics, Princeton University Press, ISBN 0-691-08445-9 (UL: 523.112 BIN) (1995), Galaxies and Cosmology, Springer-Verlag, ISBN 3-540-58933-3 (UL: 523.112 COM) (1985), Galaxies, Quasars and Cosmology, World Scientific, ISBN 9-971-50083-3 (UL: 523.1 FAN) Formative MechanismsThis module is supported by problems classes. Students are able to monitor their own progress by attempting problems sheets provided in the lectures. Students with specific problems should first approach their tutor, and if the problem is not resolved, the lecturer. Evaluation MechanismsThe module will be evaluated using information gathered via the student representation mechanisms, the staff peer appraisal scheme, and measures of student attainment based on summative assessment. |