Physics 171.313
Fall 2008
Introduction to Stellar Physics
Reading Assignments (revised October 29,
2008)
All assignments are from Prialnik, Stellar Structure and Evolution
September 4: Introduction to stars; astronomical
nomenclature
September 9/11: Chapter 1
Observed properties of stars; Hertzsprung-Russell diagram
September 16/18: Chapter 2
Basic equations of stellar physics; hydrostatic
equilibrium
September 23/25: Chapter 3; Appendix 1
Radiative transfer; equation of state
September 30/October 2: Chapter 4
Energy sources; nuclear processes
October 7/9: Chapter 5
Stellar models; polytropic models
October 14/16: Chapter 6 (Sections 5-6); Chapter 8 (Section 3)
Convection in stars; the Sun; solar neutrinos
October 21/23: Chapter 7
Main sequence and post main sequence evolution;
clusters
October 28/30: Chapter 8; Chapter 3 (Section 3); Chapter
5 (Section 4)
Evolution of massive stars; white
dwarfs; neutron stars
November 4: MID-TERM EXAM
November 6: NO CLASS
November 11: NO CLASS
November 13: Chapter 9
Novae; supernovae; accretion disks
November 18/20: Chapter 9 (continued)
Pulsars; black holes
November 25: Chapter 10
Interstellar medium; star formation
December 2/4: Chapter 10 (continued)
Formation of planetary systems; exoplanets
The FINAL EXAM will be a take-home exam. It will be
due by Friday, December 19, 10 am.
