Nuclear Astrophysics

Lecturer: Dr Alison M. Laird
Number of Lectures in Course: 18

Lectures

Copies of the slides presented in the Nuclear Astrophysics lectures will be here for download when available.

Aims
In this module we will consider the synthesis of nuclei in astrophysical environments with the aim of developing an understanding of how the elements which we and our surroundings are made of were created. We will discuss nucleosynthesis in various astrophysical environments, starting with the Big Bang and ranging from steady state solar interiors to the more energetic conditions found in novae, supernovae and X-ray bursts.

Learning outcomes: at the end of this module successful students will be able to:
- Describe how the abundance pattern of the elements we see around us reflects nucleosynthesis in different astrophysical environments
- Describe these astrophysical sites and the specific reaction processes which occur in each site
- Demonstrate an understanding of the underlying nuclear physics, via calculation or discussion, as appropriate
- Describe and compare the experimental techniques used to measure reactions rates
- Discuss the limits of our understanding and areas of current research activity

References

Useful Links

Page Last Updated: 22nd January 2009