This unit begins with an overview of the nuclear reactions that produce energy in stars, showing that stellar nucleosynthesis and supernova explosions generate all the heavy elements in the universe. Stellar life cycles are explored in some detail, including the various culminating states (white dwarf, neutron star, black hole, etc.). Stellar formation is then described in the context of the large scale evolution of the universe following the Big Bang, from the formation of the first stars and galaxies through to galaxy clusters and interactions. Types of galaxies and their morphologies are discussed (spiral, elliptical, dwarf, etc), along with their evolution. The use of star clusters... -- Course Website
Prerequisites: 8142 (v.4)<br/> Physics 201<br/> <br/> or any previous version
