ASP2062 Introduction to astrophysics
Faculty of Science
ASP2062 Introduction to astrophysics is a level 2, 6-credit-point, undergraduate unit from the Faculty of Science, offered in 2021 in Semester 2 at Clayton. It has no prerequisites and unlocks 3 units.
- Credit points
- 6
- Offered in 2021
- Semester 2
- Clayton
- Assessment
- Exam 50%
- and 2 other tasks
This is the 2021 handbook entry. See the 2027 entry.
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Requisites
Overview
An introduction to contemporary astrophysics, with a focus on the range of physical processes which shape the universe and the objects within. You will study the generation, propagation and absorption of radiation; star and planet formation; celestial mechanics; accretion disks; interiors of stars and nucleosynthesis; post main sequence evolution; compact objects and black holes; the Milky Way; galaxies and cosmology. Laboratory work will include analytic and computer-based exercises, involving research-grade data and numerical codes.
Offerings in 2021
| Teaching period | Campus | Mode |
|---|---|---|
| Second semester | Clayton | On campus |
Assessment
- Workshops35%
- In-semester tests15%
- Examination (3 hours and 10 minutes)50%
Learning outcomes
When you finish this unit, you should be able to:
- 1
Apply basic physical and mathematical principles, including dimensional analysis, to gain a quantitative and qualitative understanding of astrophysical processes.
- 2
Explain how observational data may be exploited to infer the physical properties of cosmic objects.
- 3
Solve astrophysical problems, and complete a range of problem solving tasks by drawing on physical principles.
- 4
Use practical skills to computationally model astrophysical systems.
- 5
Demonstrate a knowledge of stars, planets, and galaxies sufficient to undertake further astrophysics studies at Level 3.
Workload and teaching
- Laboratories36 hours
- Lectures36 hours
- Teaching approachProblem-based learning
- Teaching approachActive learning
The workload to achieve the learning outcomes for this unit is 144 hours spread across the semester (roughly 12 hours per week) - which requires an even mixture of attendance at scheduled activities and self-scheduled study time. Learning activities comprise a mixture of instructor directed, peer directed and self-directed learning, which includes face-to-face and online engagement.
Problem-solving and computer workshops consist of problem-based learning.
Lectures include interactive components. Tutorials and computer laboratories are hands-on.
Learning resources
Recommended resources
Mayor & Frei (MF) New Worlds in the Cosmos: the Discovery of Exoplanets , CUP, 2003
Carroll & Ostlie (C&O) An Introduction to Modern Astrophysics , 2nd Edition, Cambridge University Press (2017). Includes online resources at the following address: http://wps.aw.com/aw_carroll_ostlie_astro_2e/48/12319/3153834.cw
Armitage, Astrophysics of Planet Formation , CUP, 2010
Seager & Dotson Exoplanets , UAP, 2010
Seeds & Backman Stars and Galaxies , 10th Ed.
Where it fits
ASP2062 is part of 3 areas of study in the 2021 handbook.
Contacts
- Unit Coordinators
- Professor Daniel Price
- Chief Examiners
- Professor Daniel Price
Common questions
What are the prerequisites for ASP2062?
ASP2062 has no prerequisites, but enrolment rules apply.
What can I take after ASP2062?
ASP2062 is a prerequisite or corequisite for 3 units, including ASP3012, ASP3162 and ASP3231.
When is ASP2062 offered?
In 2021, ASP2062 runs in Semester 2 at Clayton.
Does ASP2062 have an exam?
Yes. The exam is worth 50% of the final mark, alongside 2 other tasks.
Which majors and minors include ASP2062?
ASP2062 is part of Astrophysics.