Astrophysics and the Standard Model: Notes
Assignments:
Due Wednesday, January 9:
Skim at least the Table of Contents for Chapters 1 - 5 in the text, and come with any questions you'd like addressed before we move on to our discussion of stars.
Due Monday, January 14:
Read Chapter 7, pp 180-201.
Due Monday, January 14
You have each chosen a frequency range. Find the top 1 - 3 telescopes/detectors (more if you choose) currently existing to detect astrophysical signals in that frequency range. Bring a thumb drive or send me weblinks showing images of the devices themselves and some of the resulting imagery. Possible frequency ranges include radio, microwave, infrared, visible (don't miss the GMT), ultraviolet, x-ray, gamma rays. You may also choose neutrino or cosmic ray detectors. Be prepared to present your findings briefly in class (3 - 5 minutes; you'll be cut off after half an hour if you get carried away).
In class, Mon, Jan 28 and Wed, Jan 30:
Some basics of the Standard Model and General Relativity, with applications in neutrino and gravitational astronomy.
Due Monday, January 28
Come to class with potential topics for your term project. On Monday we will narrow the choices.
Due over next two weeks:
Read Chapters 8, 10, and 13. Focus on how we use the Hertzsprung-Russell diagram to learn about stellar evolution, on the different nucleosynthesis reactions that power stars, and on stellar evolution along the main sequence. We will discuss the final stages of stellar evolution in more detail in class. Come with questions on the readings.
Wednesday, Feb 6: The Search for the Higgs
Monday, Feb 11:
The Higgs mechanism
Wednesday, Feb 13:
Mixed topics:
- Video: LIGO: LIGO
- Project update: Options: In-class discussion or office meetings
- The Hertzsprung-Russell diagram (see readings in text, above, and online, below)
Read: