Physics of the Interstellar and Intergalactic Medium (Princeton Series in Astrophysics, 19)

Draine, Bruce T.

ISBN 10: 0691122148 / ISBN 13: 9780691122144

Published by Princeton University Press, 2011

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Bibliographic Details

• Title: Physics of the Interstellar and Intergalactic Medium (Princeton Series in Astrophysics, 19)
• Publisher: Princeton University Press
• Publication Date: 2011
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0691122148
• ISBN 13: 9780691122144
• Binding: Paperback
• Condition: New

About this title

Synopsis

This is a comprehensive and richly illustrated textbook on the astrophysics of the interstellar and intergalactic medium--the gas and dust, as well as the electromagnetic radiation, cosmic rays, and magnetic and gravitational fields, present between the stars in a galaxy and also between galaxies themselves. Topics include radiative processes across the electromagnetic spectrum; radiative transfer; ionization; heating and cooling; astrochemistry; interstellar dust; fluid dynamics, including ionization fronts and shock waves; cosmic rays; distribution and evolution of the interstellar medium; and star formation. While it is assumed that the reader has a background in undergraduate-level physics, including some prior exposure to atomic and molecular physics, statistical mechanics, and electromagnetism, the first six chapters of the book include a review of the basic physics that is used in later chapters. This graduate-level textbook includes references for further reading, and serves as an invaluable resource for working astrophysicists. * Essential textbook on the physics of the interstellar and intergalactic medium * Based on a course taught by the author for more than twenty years at Princeton University * Covers radiative processes, fluid dynamics, cosmic rays, astrochemistry, interstellar dust, and more * Discusses the physical state and distribution of the ionized, atomic, and molecular phases of the interstellar medium * Reviews diagnostics using emission and absorption lines * Features color illustrations and detailed reference materials in appendices * Instructor's manual with problems and solutions (available only to teachers)

About the Author

Bruce T. Draine is professor of astrophysical sciences at Princeton University and a member of the National Academy of Sciences.