ASTR 105 Introduction to Astrophysics is an introductory course designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of astrophysics, exploring the fundamental principles and phenomena that govern the universe. Through this course, students will delve into the study of celestial bodies, their properties, and the physical processes that shape our cosmos. From the birth of stars to the formation of galaxies, from the mysteries of dark matter and dark energy to the vast expanse of the universe, ASTR 105 will unravel the secrets of astrophysics and foster a deep appreciation for the wonders of the cosmos.
Curriculum
- 7 Sections
- 35 Lessons
- 10 Weeks
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- Section 1: The Universe and Its ScaleExplore the mind-boggling vastness of the universe and gain an understanding of its incredible scale. From the cosmic web to the expansion of the universe, this section sets the stage for our journey into the depths of astrophysics.6
- 1.1Lesson 1: The Vastness of the Universe
- 1.2Lesson 2: Cosmic Web and Large-Scale Structure
- 1.3Lesson 3: Cosmic Microwave Background Radiation
- 1.4Lesson 4: Expansion of the Universe and Dark Energy
- 1.5Lesson 5: Cosmological Redshift and the Big Bang Theory
- 1.6Lesson 6: The Scale of the Universe Quiz10 Minutes0 Questions
- Section 2: Light and TelescopesDelve into the study of light, its properties, and the tools we use to observe and understand the universe. Discover the different types of telescopes and how they enable us to explore the cosmos.6
- Section 3: Stellar AstrophysicsEmbark on a journey to understand the life cycles of stars, their formation, evolution, and the processes that occur within them. Explore the diversity and intricacies of stellar phenomena.6
- 3.1Lesson 1: Structure, Formation, and Evolution of Stars
- 3.2Lesson 2: Hertzsprung-Russell Diagram and Stellar Classifications
- 3.3Lesson 3: Stellar Nucleosynthesis and Element Production
- 3.4Lesson 4: Stellar Populations and Star Cluster Age
- 3.5Lesson 5: Variable Stars: Cepheids and Supernovae
- 3.6Lesson 6: Stars Quiz10 Minutes0 Questions
- Section 4: Galaxies and CosmologyDive into the study of galaxies and the structure of the universe as a whole. Explore the mysteries of dark matter, active galactic nuclei, and the formation and evolution of galaxies.6
- 4.1Lesson 1: Types of Galaxies and Galaxy Classification
- 4.2Lesson 2: Galactic Dynamics and Dark Matter
- 4.3Lesson 3: Properties of Active Galactic Nuclei and Quasars
- 4.4Lesson 4: Formation and Evolution of Galaxies
- 4.5Lesson 5: Galaxy Clusters and Their Impact on Cosmology
- 4.6Lesson 6: Galaxies Quiz10 Minutes0 Questions
- Section 5: Exoplanets and Planetary SystemsVenture into the study of exoplanets and planetary systems beyond our solar system. Uncover the techniques used to detect and characterize exoplanets and explore the possibility of habitable worlds.6
- 5.1Lesson 1: Exoplanet Detection and Characterization Methods
- 5.2Lesson 2: Properties and Classification of Exoplanets
- 5.3Lesson 3: Habitability of Exoplanets and the Search for Life
- 5.4Lesson 4: Planetary Systems and Planet Formation
- 5.5Lesson 5: Structure and Dynamics of Our Solar System
- 5.6Lesson 6: Exoplanets Quiz10 Minutes0 Questions
- Section 6: High-Energy AstrophysicsDelve into the energetic phenomena that occur in the universe, including gamma-ray bursts, black holes, and cosmic rays. Explore the fascinating world of high-energy astrophysics.6
- 6.1Lesson 1: High-Energy Astrophysical Sources and Mechanisms
- 6.2Lesson 2: Gamma-Ray Bursts, Pulsars, and Black Holes
- 6.3Lesson 3: Accretion Disks and Jets in Active Galaxies
- 6.4Lesson 4: Nature of Cosmic Rays and Their Origins
- 6.5Lesson 5: Detection and Study of Gravitational Waves
- 6.6Lesson 6: High-Energy Astrophysics Quiz10 Minutes0 Questions
- Section 7: Cosmology and the Early UniverseJourney back in time to the early moments of the universe and explore the foundations of cosmology. Investigate the Big Bang theory, cosmic microwave background radiation, and the mysteries of dark matter.6
- 7.1Lesson 1: Big Bang Theory and the Early Universe
- 7.2Lesson 2: Cosmic Microwave Background Radiation
- 7.3Lesson 3: Formation of Large-Scale Structures
- 7.4Lesson 4: Inflation and Cosmic Microwave Background Anisotropy
- 7.5Lesson 5: Evidence for Dark Matter and its Implications
- 7.6Lesson 6: Cosmology Quiz10 Minutes0 Questions