Jansky: When Physics Majors Should Expect It

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In summary, for a general physics degree, it is not reasonable to assume knowledge of the non-SI unit "Jansky". It is mostly used in the subfield of radio astronomy, so it should only be encountered in specialist courses. However, it may be introduced in the first specialist astronomy course. Many modern cosmology textbooks, such as Dodelson & Schmidt's "Modern Cosmology" and Weinberg's "Cosmology", provide detailed exercises that force the reader to work through tedious detail.
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At what point during study for a reputable physics degree should one normally encounter the "Jansky"?

I.e., at what point is it reasonable for a lecturer (or textbook writer!) to assume the existence and meaning of "Jansky" as basic prior knowledge?
 
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For a general physics degree, I would say it is not reasonable to assume any knowledge. It is a unit mostly seeing use in a particular subfield and unless students are specialising in that particular subfield they will most likely not be exposed or have very limited exposure.
 
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strangerep said:
At what point during study for a reputable physics degree should one normally encounter the "Jansky"?
One should only encounter SI units as part of a degree. Avoid the non-SI Jansky. The Jansky should be ignored until one makes experimental observations in radio astronomy.
 
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I made it through an entire physics degree without coming across it as far as I recall. So I'd say you introduce it in the first specialist astronomy course.
 
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Thank you all.

In case anyone is wondering, I came across this unit the hard way...

I've decided to try and improve my knowledge of the non-GR aspects of cosmology. So I've started working through Dodelson & Schmidt "Modern Cosmology" 2nd Ed (2021), intending to do every exercise properly. In ch1 (sigh), Ex 1.4, they ask the reader to convert from the CMB black body ##I_\nu## intensity-vs-frequency formula to the units on their graph Fig 1.7. Their vertical axis is labelled MJy/sr, which I thought meant Megajoule-year/sr (and now I don't know whether to sigh or laugh). Being determined to complete this should-be-simple exercise without looking at the solution, I wasted several hours. They only explain in their solution at the end of the book that the vertical axis is in these weird units called "Janskys".

Oh well, I guess I'll just have to re-acclimatize myself to the sloppy way these things are "taught" in physics courses, as opposed to (say) applied maths.

BTW, does anyone have suggestions for alternate very modern cosmology textbooks that force you to work through all the seriously tedious detail?
 
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As usual, Weinberg is a very good but tedious choice. It's not that "modern" anymore given the quick development of cosmology, but it's reasonably new, I'd say:

S. Weinberg, Cosmology, Oxford University Press (2008)
 

FAQ: Jansky: When Physics Majors Should Expect It

What is Jansky and why is it important for physics majors?

Jansky is a unit of measurement used in radio astronomy to quantify the strength of radio waves. It is important for physics majors because it allows them to understand and analyze data collected from radio telescopes, which are essential tools for studying the universe.

When should physics majors expect to learn about Jansky?

Physics majors typically learn about Jansky in their introductory astronomy or astrophysics courses. It is also commonly covered in courses specifically focused on radio astronomy.

How is Jansky related to other units of measurement in physics?

Jansky is related to other units of measurement in physics through its conversion to other units. For example, 1 Jansky is equal to 10^-26 watts per square meter per hertz, which is a common unit for measuring electromagnetic radiation.

Can Jansky be used for anything other than radio astronomy?

Jansky was originally created for use in radio astronomy, but it has since been adopted by other fields such as telecommunications and satellite communications. It is also used in some medical imaging techniques.

Are there any current developments or advancements in Jansky technology?

Yes, there are ongoing developments in Jansky technology, particularly in the field of radio astronomy. New telescopes and instruments are being developed to improve the sensitivity and resolution of Jansky measurements, allowing for more detailed and accurate observations of the universe.

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