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Astronomy and Astrophysics

Code 14944
Year 3
Semester S1
ECTS Credits 6
Workload TP(60H)
Scientific area Physics
Entry requirements None
Learning outcomes The objective of this CU is that students acquire theoretical and practical knowledge of physical concepts concerning astronomy and astrophysics.
A student completing this CU should be able to identify, interpret and analyze elementary physical situations found in astrophysics. In addition, the student will learn skills associated with the use of astronomical instruments.
Syllabus 1) Observation and telescopes
(a) Electromagnetic (EM) waves and EM spectrum
(b) Types of telescopes
(c) Azimuthal versus equatorial telescope mounts
(d) Elements of astrometry and spherical astronomy
2) Gravitation and Kepler laws
3) Solar system
(a) Origin of the solar system
(b) Terrestrial planets and their inner structure
(c) Jovian planets
(d) Other objects in the solar system
4) The Sun and the stars
(a) Stellar spectrum and the classification of stars
(b) Astronomical radiation
(c) The sun as a model of stellar structure
(d) Nuclear reactions in stars
(e) Life cycle of a star: from the birth to the formation of black holes
(f) Binary stars
5) Galaxies
(a) Elliptical galaxies
(b) Spiral galaxies
(c) The local group and galaxy clusters
(d) Dark matter evidences
Main Bibliography 1. Jain P (2015). An Introduction to Astronomy and Astrophysics. Boca Raton, FL: CRC Press
2. Zombeck MV (2007). Handbook of Space Astronomy and Astrophysics, 3rd ed. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press
3. Karttunen H et al (2017). Fundamental Astronomy, 6th ed. Springer
Teaching Methodologies and Assessment Criteria The classes are a blend of theoretical and practical components. After introducing the theoretical concepts, they are applied to the analysis of real-world cases, helping to clarify the methods presented.

The assessment structure (CEA) is composed of two main components: homework assignments (TPC), graded on a scale of 0-20 and accounting for 65% of the final grade, and an end-of-semester project presentation (TI), also graded on a scale of 0-20, which contributes 35% to the overall grade. The final CEA score is calculated using the following formula:

CEA=0.65×TPC+0.35×TI

All students are eligible to sit for the exam.
Language Portuguese. Tutorial support is available in English.
Last updated on: 2024-12-23

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