Stellar structure and evolution
Module PH2168
Module version of SS 2013
There are historic module descriptions of this module. A module description is valid until replaced by a newer one.
Whether the module’s courses are offered during a specific semester is listed in the section Courses, Learning and Teaching Methods and Literature below.
| available module versions | |
|---|---|
| WS 2017/8 | SS 2013 |
Basic Information
PH2168 is a semester module in German or English language at Master’s level which is offered in winter semester.
This Module is included in the following catalogues within the study programs in physics.
- Specific catalogue of special courses for nuclear, particle, and astrophysics
- Complementary catalogue of special courses for condensed matter physics
- Complementary catalogue of special courses for Biophysics
- Complementary catalogue of special courses for Applied and Engineering Physics
If not stated otherwise for export to a non-physics program the student workload is given in the following table.
| Total workload | Contact hours | Credits (ECTS) |
|---|---|---|
| 150 h | 40 h | 5 CP |
Responsible coordinator of the module PH2168 in the version of SS 2013 was Wolfgang Hillebrandt.
Content, Learning Outcome and Preconditions
Content
I. Equations of stellar evolution
1. The virial theorem and relevant timescales
2. Hydrostatic equilibrium
3. Energy generation in stars - thermonuclear reactions
4. Energy transport in stars
II. Stellar evolution
1. Stellar models
2. Main-sequence evolution
3. Late stages of stellar evolution
4. Evolution of binary stars
III. Stars as physics laboratories
1. The sun, solar neutrinos
2. Cooling of white dwarfs
IV. Stars and cosmology
1. Stars as distance indicators
2. Chemical evolution of galaxies
Learning Outcome
After participation in the module the student:
1. is able to understand the structure and evolution of stars from their birth to late stages
2. understands the physical processes that control stellar structure and evolution
3. knows the role stars play in the chemical evolution of galxies and in cosmology
Preconditions
Courses, Learning and Teaching Methods and Literature
Courses and Schedule
| Type | SWS | Title | Lecturer(s) | Dates | Links |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| VO | 2 | Stellar Structure and Evolution | Hillebrandt, W. |
Fri, 12:00–14:00, PH HS3 |
Learning and Teaching Methods
Media
Literature
Cox, Giuli: Principles of Stellar Structure (new edition by A. Weiss et al.); Cambridge Scientific Publishers (2004)
Kippenhahn, Weigert, Weiss: Stellar Structure and Evolution; Springer (2012)
Salaris, Cassis: Evolution of Stars and Stellar Populations; Wiley & Sons (2005)
Module Exam
Description of exams and course work
In an oral exam the learning outcome is tested using comprehension questions and sample problems.
In accordance with §12 (8) APSO the exam can be done as a written test. In this case the time duration is 60 minutes.
Exam Repetition
The exam may be repeated at the end of the semester.