Astrophysics Definition and 874 Threads

Astrophysics is a science that employs the methods and principles of physics in the study of astronomical objects and phenomena. Among the subjects studied are the Sun, other stars, galaxies, extrasolar planets, the interstellar medium and the cosmic microwave background. Emissions from these objects are examined across all parts of the electromagnetic spectrum, and the properties examined include luminosity, density, temperature, and chemical composition. Because astrophysics is a very broad subject, astrophysicists apply concepts and methods from many disciplines of physics, including classical mechanics, electromagnetism, statistical mechanics, thermodynamics, quantum mechanics, relativity, nuclear and particle physics, and atomic and molecular physics.
In practice, modern astronomical research often involves a substantial amount of work in the realms of theoretical and observational physics. Some areas of study for astrophysicists include their attempts to determine the properties of dark matter, dark energy, black holes, and other celestial bodies; and the origin and ultimate fate of the universe. Topics also studied by theoretical astrophysicists include Solar System formation and evolution; stellar dynamics and evolution; galaxy formation and evolution; magnetohydrodynamics; large-scale structure of matter in the universe; origin of cosmic rays; general relativity, special relativity, quantum and physical cosmology, including string cosmology and astroparticle physics.

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  1. M

    I Particle distribution as a function of radius in astrophysics

    Hello everyone, I am working on a project in astrophysics in which I need to include now some type of particle distribution (as a function of the radius). I was wondering if there is some accepted function that would describe the number of particles per radius in astrophysics. Saturn's rings...
  2. L

    Poynting-Robertson effect on an object orbiting the sun

    I'm in the 11th hour of studying, and have run into a problem I can't seem to tackle from an old exam. I may be making some foolish mistakes, as I've now been staring at this thing for entirely too long. 1. Homework Statement (a) Calculate the force due to radiation pressure experienced by an...
  3. Mikey16

    Self-study Astrophysics by Reading Books

    I am a mechanical engineering student who got a master offer in space science recently. This master course is more like astrophysics. So if I want to systematically study astrophysics, where should I start and which books should I start reading first of all? Thanks!
  4. S

    Missing 24 Micron Counterparts for Methanol Multibeam Sources

    I was searching for 24 micron counterparts(in the MIPSGAL catalogue) for Methanol Multibeam sources but found them missing for most of the cases. What could be the posssible reason?
  5. N

    B Speed of light within a black hole

    I assume that, via scattering processes, the speed of light slows from that in a vacuum close to the centre of a black hole to zero at the event horizon. How is the gradient in its speed defined throughout this volume? Is an analogy with a sound wave reaching an interface appropriate?
  6. S

    Is a Career in Astrophysics Worth Pursuing?

    Hey guys, new user here. My "big" question, the thing that fascinates me most, is the universe. Since I was a kid I have loved learning about it. I went through college pursuing medicine and realized that I want to do research. I love biological research, but I simply love the study of the...
  7. Will K

    B Unitarity and Entanglement: Examining the Fate of Information in Black Holes

    What happens to the information about the objects falling into the black hole? Are their states somehow contained in the Hawking Radiation, and if so, how? Or is the information scrambled as it passes the EH?
  8. Will K

    I Black Holes: What They Are & What They're Made Of

    What are black holes made of?
  9. Will K

    I Black Hole Time Dilation: What Would an Astronaut See?

    So let's say an astronaut was being sucked into a black hole and was able to escape spaghettification and all the death a black hole brings. Since black holes bend space-time itself, the astronaut would experience a differen't time zone than an outside observer (time is relative). The astronaut...
  10. V

    Seeking book recommendations for studying astrophysics

    Hi! I'm interested in studying astrophysics. I've previously studied the basic concepts about stars, galaxie and black holes. Can anyone recommend some books that would help me learn more about astrophysics?
  11. dykuma

    Why Are Stars Hot? Exploring the Heating Process of Stars

    Homework Statement Why are stars hot? Homework Equations Non specifically, it's a conceptual question. The Attempt at a Solution I have always heard that stars are hot because (as a quick very basic example) stars are large collections of mass which collapse in on itself. Eventually the...
  12. TheSodesa

    Magnitude of a component of a triple star

    Homework Statement The apparent total magnitude of a triple star is ##m_0 = 0,0##. The apparent magnitudes of two of its components are ##m_1 = 1,0## and ##m_2 = 2,0##. What is the apparent magnitude of the third component? Answer: 0,9 Homework Equations Since according to Norman Pogson...
  13. Leonardo Machado

    Physics Nuclear or Astrophysics master's degree?

    Hello everyone. I'm approaching the end of my physics graduation and must start to think about what to do next. I'm working in a project with a professor in the university about stellar sctructure and it captivated me. Now i don't know if i take the specialization in nuclear physics or...
  14. B

    Recombination Lines - Astrophysics

    Homework Statement For an atom X, the high-n levels have energies ##E_n = -\mu \frac{(\alpha c)^2}{n^2}## with ##\alpha = \frac{e^2}{\hbar c}## Find the frequency shift ##\nu_{Hen\alpha} - \nu_{Hn\alpha}## for ##n\alpha## giving a transition frequency near 142MHz (The notation here means...
  15. G

    Analog Electrical Engineer Explores Physics & Astrophysics

    I am an analog electrical engineer by trade engaged in self teaching myself Analysis / Particle Physics and Astrophysics for the last couple of years. I have worked in the computer graphics field for almost 30 years, ranging from hardware / chip design / device drivers and compilers with 30...
  16. starstruck_

    Is this a good plan to pursue astrophysics?

    Hey! I'm a high school senior who has like 6 weeks left to apply to Universities and I really, really, reallyy want to pursue astrophysics, but my parents won't let me. They're forcing me into computer science because it has the best outlook. I tried explaining that my astrophysics degree will...
  17. P

    What is the scope of analytical research in astrophysics?

    Nowadays much of the community of astronomy and astrophysics is focused on simulations and data analysis. Thus people, who do not have access to grids and data, must resort to analytical analysis. What are the challenging areas of astronomy and astrophysics that rely on analytical workout rather...
  18. Oracle1

    Got an astrophysics/ astrodynamics question....

    How would a solar system need to be set up to provide a life bearing world, standard 1 g, with the surface area of Jupiter with a standard day / night 24 hour cycle?
  19. Julia00

    Astrophysics Careers: Job Opportunities & Advice

    I am currently studying Physics, Chemistry, Maths and further maths at A level, and I am interested in going to university and studying astrophysics. However I was wondering how can you get a job in this field of science after you get your astrophysics degree? I have done some research and...
  20. G

    Courses Quantum mechanics and astrophysics prerequirements

    Do i need to go through classical mechanics, electricity and magnetism, thermodynamics and some other physics courses to start studying topics like quantum mechanics, astrophysics, gravitation and relativity?
  21. bri7

    Astronomy : Velocity of approach of the Sun's equator

    The sun's rotational period is 25 days at the equator. Given that the radius of the sun is 700,000 km, calculate the max velocity of approach or recession of the Sun's equator as viewed from Earth. Find the max change in wavelength of a spectral line due to the rotation and express it as a...
  22. victorhugo

    I What computer science would you need for astrophysics?

    when they say c.s., do they mean a coding language? if so, which one(s)?
  23. Thomas Eaton

    B Virtual Particles; Making the Universe an Open System?

    The question here is simple; would the existence of virtual particles make the universe an open system? And if not, why? I thank all who consider this question for their time and would love to hear an answer.
  24. astro_chara

    B Astrophysics Science Fair Project Ideas?

    Hi, a friend and I are planning to participate in a county science fair this year. We're in need of ideas, especially since we want to focus on a project in astrophysics that we would be able to test. Or research. We can get access to an observatory, and maybe perform the research there. Any...
  25. dykuma

    Surface Brightness at any angle

    Homework Statement Here is a picture of the problem https://www.dropbox.com/s/2bps6ga2o4hjpgw/hw4.png?dl=0 For those who don't want to click the link, basically the problem wants me to calculate the surface brightness of a flat surface at any angle if the source function S = B(T), which is a...
  26. O

    The precision in measurements of radial velocities by DE?

    Hello, I have an exercise here that I need help with. The precision in measurements of radial velocities by the Doppler effect is currently 1 m/s. Can a Jupiter like planet orbiting a star similar to the Sun at a distance from the mother star equal to the Sun-Jupiter distance be detected? (Use...
  27. S

    Value or what one can do with astronomy or astrophysics education

    Title field did not accept all of title: Value or what one can do with astronomy or astrophysics education What is the real-world, employment value and meaning of a degree in Physics if a student concentrates on astronomy or astrophysics, meaning his employment value? What about such a degree...
  28. PhysicianSteve

    Schools I'm taking astrophysics but there is no AP department.

    I live in Indonesia and it's a developing country. There are no astrophysics faculties right here, even astronomy. Even if there is one we don't have any job related to it here. It's kinda hard for me because no one supports me to study in this field. They said "it's useless and nonsense" "Why...
  29. I

    Is this EPQ question acceptable (Astrophysics)

    Hello, next year I am undertaking an extended project qualification in school. I am required to write a 5000 word dissertation on the subject of my choice. I enjoy astrophysics and am wondering whether this question actually makes sense. To what extent Is the use of Newtonian Celestial...
  30. C

    Studying How best to prepare for MSc. in Astrophysics

    Hi all, I'm a software engineer, I graduated in 2013 as a mature student and I'm now at a senior level. I wanted to pursue a Masters degree and I've found an accredited distance learning MSc. in the UK ( https://www.ljmu.ac.uk/study/courses/postgraduates/astrophysics-msc) I'm using...
  31. Gravitational Waves: A New Era of Astronomy Begins

    Gravitational Waves: A New Era of Astronomy Begins

    Join some of the very scientists responsible for this most anticipated discovery of our age and see how gravitational waves will be used to explore the universe like never before.
    • DennisN
    • Media item
    • astronomy astrophysics gravitational waves
    • Comments: 1
    • Category: Pop Science
  32. Oganesson

    I Is Jupiter too big to orbit the Sun?

    I read the Jupiter is so big that it doesn't really orbit the sun. Is that true?
  33. hockeysam

    Studying Getting Started with Astrophysics: An Exploration for Beginners

    Hey everyone! I've been accepted into an astrophysics master's program for this fall and wanted to get a head start before classes begin. During undergrad I took several courses in astronomy/astrophysics and really enjoyed studying these topics. But the problem is that I don't know where to...
  34. S

    Other Help Non-traditional student planning to study astrophysics

    Hello, I am an MBA graduate from India, currently working at a private company. I am single and I belong middle income group. I discovered my interest only after completion of my postgraduate degree. I am so much passionate towards astrophysics and astronomy. I am 27 years old now, and I am...
  35. N

    Programs Double major in Astrophysics and Engineering Physics?

    I am going to be a high school senior this fall and I want to pursue a career in astrophysics, but the amount of jobs is small, so would it be a good idea to double major in astrophysics and engineering physics? I was also wondering what other engineering majors can go with astrophysics. Also I...
  36. Bristlethorn

    Interesting topics for undergraduate astrophysics research?

    Starting in the fall of this year, I'm going to get to start my own year-long undergraduate research project. To summarize as briefly as possible: Resources Available: Our university has access to the SMARTS consortium's three telescopes: - 1.5m CHIRON telescope - 1.3m ANDICAM telescope...
  37. Daleri Mc Rileda

    B How is the Age of the Universe Determined?

    How can the age of the universe be determined when there is no absolute measure of time or distance in the universe. Every other place in the universe has another rate of the passing of time. Since time expands with the expansion of space, trying to use expanded time to measure time is circular...
  38. S

    Stargazing Can you me with this Hershel telescope beam?

    I came to know that the PACS instrument of HERSHEL has a resolution of 5" at a scan speed of 20''/sec whereas it's 10'' at 60''/sec. The resolution has almost doubled with the scan speed. Can you please tell me why it's so?
  39. MichaelLujan

    Writing: Input Wanted What would it take to crawl out of a black hole?

    As I understand it, the crux of the issue is: how is information preserved across the event horizon, in this case, the arrangements of subatomic particles, atoms, etc right on up through the individual parts, etc., of the creature in question. That, and the relativistic escape velocity required...
  40. L

    Cosmology Cosmology&particles astrophysics textbook

    Could you recommend me some good textbooks on cosmology, please? I'm looking for something that covers both general relativity topics and, which is more important for me, particles astrophysics stuff. I like the structure of Bergström&Goobar's book but it's a little bit sketchy. Something with...
  41. J

    Programs Should I get degree(s) in these majors why or why not?

    I have recently finished my junior year in high school. I am seriously considering astrophysics, nuclear engineering, and structural engineering. I would love to get a degree in all of them if possible but, which one should i get first to help me get a job to afford to get the others? what about...
  42. Zachary Eckert

    Physics Assessing the risk of pursuing physics

    Hello, I've done pretty thorough research and realize that this topic of "Is physics hard, can I handle it, how risky is it, etc" has been beaten to death. But I'm going to ask for advice anyway haha. So the situation is, I have always had a love for astronomy since I was a child, and nature...
  43. A

    Physics Need guidance for my career (physics and astrophysics)

    Hello, I live in a developing country, I've lived in this town of my country since my childhood, and i was a type of loner who went to school and came home, not having any outside world experience that much or i could say my family didn't go to countryside or any other part of my country...
  44. Mr Proton

    Studying I need a physics mentor (Astrophysics or Theoretical)

    Hello all, I am an aspiring physicist, however I am only in high school, and I live in Idaho, I need an adviser. Someone who can tell me what I need to know, best ways to learn things, and how to get to where I want to be. Any help is appreciated.
  45. W

    Studying Maths, Physics, Astrophysics, Astronomy or Cosmology?

    Hi, I don't know where to begin, please forgive me for asking this if it's been answered before. I'm confused, I don't know what to study, can you help me out? I'm fascinated by the Universe, my only regret in life is that I don't live in space far away from humans. I've always liked...
  46. Brent_L

    Just starting out in Quantum Physics

    Hello, my name is Brent I am very interested in Quantum Physics as well as Astrophysics. Is their anything I should know pointer or tips. Thanks.
  47. Tom MS

    Falling to a Star With Varying Acceleration

    Take an object of negligible mass that is dropped from rest 2 kilometers away from a neutron star of mass 1.989*10^30 kilograms (1 solar mass) and radius 7,802 meters. How long will it take the object to reach the surface of the neutron star? I'm not terrible at calculus, but I know for a fact...
  48. Gjmdp

    Do I need Astrophysics for a PhD in Cosmology?

    Another way to ask is if I can go to my PhD in Cosmology through Astrophysics. Many people will thought that obviously yes, but notice Cosmology isn't a branch of Astrophysics, but of Theoretical Physics. Now you'll think this is a completely nonsense, so that Astrophysics is very similar to...
  49. L

    Courses Shift from biotechnology bs to astrophysics masters

    Hi, i am currently studying in biotech university. As I'm going up to 3rd year, i need to choose a major (i study in europe). The only choices i have are molecular biology and environmental technology. However, i have always been wanting to study and pursue career in astrophysics. Due to...
  50. Z

    Other Leaving Astrophysics for Econ/Math

    Hi all, I've posted about switching majors before; as of today, that decision has come to a head. I love physics, but struggled in my courses quite a bit just to end up with a 3.0 major GPA (I am in my third year). Last week, I started treatment for severe clinical depression/ADD, a week before...
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