AS5011 - Modern Astrophysics

Credit points:	06
Year:	2010
Student Contribution Band:	Band 4
Administered by:	School of Engineering

Available only to students enrolled in the Graduate Certificate of Astronomy, Graduate Diploma of Astronomy, Master of Astronomy and Doctor of Astronomy.

This subject is an introduction to the physics and mathematics of astronomy. It will tour the Universe and introduce the sciences of the various objects. The subject then introduces topics in the physical sciences and mathematics relevant to astronomy for students without a strong university background in science and mathematics (and as a revision for some students). Topics include the nature of light, astronomical and spectroscopic optics, spectroscopy, the Doppler effect, relativity, quantum mechanics, aspects of atomic physics, nuclear physics, particle physics, statistics and spherical trigonometry. We then address, in some detail, the astrophysics of the planetary systems, the stars, gas nebula, dust in the Milky Way Galaxy, other galaxies, quasars and the nature of the Universe.

Learning Outcomes

• develop presentation skills for seminars/lectures and publication;
• introduction to the nature of the Universe at an advanced level;
• learn the vocabulary of science and the thinking processes of scientists;
• learn to fully utilise the Internet for learning and research.

Availabilities
External, Study Period 1
Census Date 25-Mar-2010
Coord/Lect:	jc144410, Mr Alex Hons.
Method of Delivery:	WWW - LearnJCU
Assessment:	end of semester exam (40%); essays (30%); assignments (30%).
External, Study Period 2
Census Date 26-Aug-2010
Coord/Lect:	Mr Alex Hons.
Contact hours:	0 hours - WWW - LearnJCU
Method of Delivery:	WWW - LearnJCU
Assessment:	end of semester exam (40%); essays (30%); assignments (30%).

Note: Minor variations might occur due to the continuous Subject quality improvement process, and in case of minor variation(s) in assessment details, the Subject Outline represents the latest official information.