An Introduction to the Theory of Stellar Structure and Evolution - Softcover

Prialnik, Dina

Softcover

ISBN 10: 052165937X ISBN 13: 9780521659376

Publisher: Cambridge University Press, 2000

Synopsis

Using fundamental physics, the theory of stellar structure and evolution is able to predict how stars are born, how their complex internal structure changes, what nuclear fuel they burn, and what their ultimate fate is - a fading whitedwarf, or a cataclysmic explosion as a supernova, leaving behind a collapsed neutron star or black hole. This lucid textbook provides students with a clear and pedagogical introduction to the theory of stellar structure and evolution. It requires only basic physics and mathematics learnt in first- and second-year undergraduate studies, and assumes no prior knowledge of astronomy. The unique feature of this book is the emphasis throughout on the basic physical principles governing stellar evolution. Exercises and their full solutions are included to help students test their understanding. This textbook provides a stimulating introduction for undergraduates in astronomy, physics, planetary science and applied mathematics taking a course on the physics of stars.

About this title

Review

'The unique feature of this book is the emphasis it places, throughout, on the basic physical principles governing stellar evolution. The processes are always explained in the simplest terms, while maintaining full mathematical rigor ... This textbook provides a stimulating introduction for undergraduates in astronomy, physics, planetary science, and applied mathematics who are taking a course on the physics of stars. Because this book requires only basic undergraduate physics and mathematics and no prior knowledge of astronomy it may be written by advanced amateurs as well.' Orion

'Here we have a first-class textbook that spells out in a clear and methodical way the principles that underlie the life cycles of stars and the physics of their interiors. ... The host of student exercises in this book, plus the useful worked answers, ensure that any dedicated physics or mathematics undergraduate can, with some effort, understand what is going on.' New Scientist

'To my mind, this is the first book to be both a candidate for the title of classic and at the same time suitable for undergraduates ... The approach is very different from that of most textbooks on stars ... Throughout the book, the emphasis is on understanding physical principles, and there are well-designed exercises scattered through the text, relating to material that has just been covered; full solutions are clearly set out in an appendix ... This ... is a book that I can strongly recommend as a suitable textbook to anyone teaching a course in stellar structure, at advanced undergraduate or beginning graduate level ... Any undergraduate who masters this book will not only be well prepared to undertake graduate work in the area but will also understand his/her other physics courses better. An excellent book, which certainly deserves to become a classic.' Robert Connon Smith, The Observatory

Book Description

This lucid textbook provides undergraduate students with a clear and comprehensive introduction to the theory that predicts the birth, life and death of stars and their internal structure. It requires only basic introductory undergraduate physics and mathematics, and no prior knowledge of astronomy. Exercises and solutions are included.

Edition details

• Publisher: Cambridge University Press
• Publication date: 2000
• ISBN 10: 052165937X
• ISBN 13: 9780521659376
• Binding: Paperback
• Language: English
• Number of pages: 276