Programme/Approved Electives for 2023/24
None
Available as a Free Standing Elective
No
Successful completion of Level 5 Physics/Astrophysics
This module describes the applications of the laws of physics to some of the most extreme objects in the universe - the compact remnants of stellar evolution; white dwarfs, neutron stars and black holes. Students will learn how topics that they have already encountered, such as statistical physics, nuclear physics and quantum mechanics can be applied and used to understand the properties of materials at extremely high densities and where interactions involve all four forces of nature in (General) relativistic conditions.The core of the module is understanding the behaviour of degenerate fermion gases at high densities - either electrons or neutrons. These properties are then used to study the structure of stars (white dwarfs and neutron stars) supported by these degenerate gases. We then move on to the study of properties that can be observed - masses, radii, temperatures, luminosities - and hence used to test these theoretical ideas. The latest observations of compact objects are described and the limits of our firm knowledge are encountered. The last part of the module serves as an introduction to the study of stars in General relativity through the spherically symmetric Schwarzschild metric. This is used to derive the basic properties of black holes and explain phenomena such as the event horizon and gravitational redshift.This optional core module is available to students in level 6 of any of the Physics or Astrophysics degree programmes. Successful completion of level 5 in Physics or Astrophysics is the only entry requirement.
Aims
To develop an understanding of the laws of quantum, nuclear and statistical physics to stellar sized compact stars - i.e. White Dwarfs and Neutron Stars.
Talis Aspire Reading ListAny reading lists will be provided by the start of the course.http://lists.lib.keele.ac.uk/modules/phy-30003/lists
Intended Learning Outcomes
outline the basic principles and laws governing the physics of degenerate gases, white dwarfs, neutron stars and black holes; will be achieved by assessments: 1,2apply physical theories and models in interpreting observations and performing calculations relating to compact stellar remnants; will be achieved by assessments: 1,2use computer programs to solve problems relating to the structure and behaviour of compact stellar remnants; will be achieved by assessments: 1interpret research literature in the context of the principles and laws of physics governing the behaviour of Compact Objects. will be achieved by assessments: 1
24 hours lecture attendance2 hours exam12 hours tutorial attendance40 hours problem sheets72 hours private study
Description of Module Assessment
1: Problem Sheets weighted 30%4 x PROBLEM SHEETSFour problem sheets distributed throughout the semester, covering the topics taught in this module. Some problems will require the use of computer programs or spreadsheets for their solution; others will require independent literature research or critical analysis of primary literature.
2: Unseen Exam weighted 70%UNSEEN EXAMTwo hour unseen examination, with a mixture of bookwork and problem-solving.