Courses & Units
Galactic and Extragalactic Astrophysics KYA306
This unit is taught only in odd-numbered years. It alternates with KYA305 Stellar and Planetary Physics.
Introduction
Astrophysics is the investigation of the Universe. It enables us to study the behaviour of matter in extreme environments that cannot be replicated on Earth. In this unit you will study the solar system, stars, stellar evolution, collapsed objects such as white dwarfs, neutron stars and black holes, galactic structure, galaxies, active galactic nuclei, galaxy clusters, and the cosmic background radiation.
This unit builds upon topics covered in the core second year physics units. KYA306 is an advanced unit within the physics major. It is a strong foundation for doing an honours project, masters, or PhD in astrophysics. This unit is taught only in odd-numbered years. It alternates with KYA3xx, Stellar and Planetary Physics, so that all physics majors have the option to study one or the other of these advanced units that cover macroscopic applications of gravitation, electromagnetism, quantum mechanics and fluid dynamics. Honours students have the opportunity to take either or both of these units as desired, by planning appropriately.
Summary
| Unit name | Galactic and Extragalactic Astrophysics |
|---|---|
| Unit code | KYA306 |
| Credit points | 12.5 |
| College/School | College of Sciences and Engineering School of Natural Sciences |
| Discipline | Physics |
| Coordinator | Professor Andrew Cole |
| Available as an elective? | No |
| Delivered By | University of Tasmania |
| Level | Advanced |
Availability
This unit is currently unavailable.
Note
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* The Final WW Date is the final date from which you can withdraw from the unit without academic penalty, however you will still incur a financial liability (refer to How do I withdraw from a unit? for more information).
Unit census dates currently displaying for 2024 are indicative and subject to change. Finalised census dates for 2024 will be available from the 1st October 2023. Note census date cutoff is 11.59pm AEST (AEDT during October to March).
Learning Outcomes
- Explain how the theories of gravity, electromagnetism, and atomic & nuclear physics relate to the study of galactic and extragalactic astronomy and inform society's concepts of our place in the cosmos.
- Apply knowledge of galactic and extragalactic systems to modern astrophysical scientific questions.
- Analyse galactic and extragalactic astrophysical objects using appropriate scientific methodology.
- Present scientific results to peers and demonstrate understanding of astrophysics using oral and written means with appropriate data visualization techniques.
- Use ethical approaches to problem solving, self-directed learning, and group learning relevant to astrophysical investigations, to develop collaborative and professional ways of working.
Fee Information
The 2024 Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP) rates are still being finalised by the Government and we will update the domestic fee information as soon as we have more details.
Requisites
Prerequisites
KYA211 - Waves and Kinetic Theory AND KYA212 - Electromagnetism and Thermodynamics AND KMA252 - Calculus and Applications 2Teaching
| Teaching Pattern | 3 x 50 minute lectures weekly, 1 x 50 minute tutorial weekly |
|---|---|
| Assessment | Literature review paper (25%)|Midterm Test #1 - Interstellar Medium and Star Formation (25%)|Midterm Test #2 - Orbits and Gravitation (25%)|Problem Set Assignments (25%) |
| Timetable | View the lecture timetable | View the full unit timetable |
Textbooks
| Required |
Required readings will be listed in the unit outline prior to the start of classes. |
Links | Booktopia textbook finder |
|---|
The University reserves the right to amend or remove courses and unit availabilities, as appropriate.