Ast 8011: High Energy Astrophysics

 

    Spring 2017; M, W, F, 9:05 – 9:55 AM,

PAN 120

 

T. W. Jones

Office Hours: Contact any time by e-mail (twj-at-umn.edu)

 

Objectives:

 

This course is intended to provide an introduction to astrophysical environments and phenomena where energetic, and especially, relativistic charged particles and X-ray and Gamma-ray photons are important constituents and/or tracers. Many of these phenomena originate in locations with high gravitational potentials, so that provides an underlying theme to much of the discussion. Thus, some simple physics of evolved stars, such as white dwarfs and neutron stars, as well as black holes will be incorporated. Other relevant background physics includes shocks, high energy particle acceleration and some of the important situations for generation of very hot gas and high energy photons and secondary particles. The course is not a course in high energy, elementary particle physics. Astrophysical group discussion topics will be organized to provide some breadth and to emphasize items of current interest. Topic selection will come from class discussion.

 

Outline of the Course:

 

Weeks 1- 7: Background:

Compact objects, and an outline of the physics of high energy astrophysical phenomena. Some discussion of special methods associated with observations of high energy photons will be included.

 

Weeks 8- 15: Current Topics in High Energy Astrophysics (Group-led discussions):

Selected current topics that offer good examples of the phenomena discussed in the background section. This part of the course will be taught in a seminar style, with students leading discussions based on the literature.

 

Official Text: Longair, High Energy Astrophysics, Third Edition;

The book covers a wide range of topics. We will use it selectively. Very useful, supporting material is distributed throughout, but specific, assigned readings include, Ch 1,2, 12, 13, 14, 15-17,18-22.

Also recommended reading: Shapiro & Teukolsky, Black Holes, White Dwarfs and Neutron Stars (Much of the lecture material was derived from or at least inspired by this classic text.)

Several topical reviews will be assigned during the semester as they become relevant to discussions.

 

Grading:

 

Homework: 3-4 sets from the first, lecture section of the course (25% of grade) Homework assignments will be accepted without penalty until the next class meeting after they are due. Any assignments turned in later than that receive no credit.

 

In-class participation (Preparation for discussions in leader group and active discussion by everyone as participants. This includes clear evidence that the assigned readings have been read.) (50%)

 

Mid Term Exam (25%)

 

No final exam

 

 

Homework Assignments:

 

Homework 1 (due February 1)

 

Homework 2 (due February 8)

 

Homework 3 (due February 22)

 

Homework 4 (due March 1)

 

Seminar Schedule and Readings (Posted March 18, 2017):