Admission requirements
Knowledge of calculus and linear algebra at the bachelor level is required. In terms of the Leiden curriculum, the Astronomy bachelor's courses Quantum Mechanics 1 and Quantum Mechanics 2 are a prerequisite for enrolling in the course and the bachelor's course Radiative processes is strongly recommended.
Description
In this course you will learn to understand and apply atomic and molecular spectroscopy in an astronomical context. The course covers the basics of absorption spectroscopy and the history of astronomical spectroscopy. It summarizes the general principles of quantum mechanics, and from these derives the principles behind atomic and molecular spectroscopy of molecules commonly found in the interstellar medium. You will learn how to interpret spectra and how to simulate spectra. From spectroscopic information you will learn to deduce astrophysical and astrochemical processes occurring in the gas phase and the solid state. Throughout, the course highlights the synergy between observational and laboratory spectroscopy in astronomical research.
The following topics are covered:
Atomic spectroscopy and Grotrian diagrams
Molecular spectroscopy (electronic, vibrational, rotational)
Spectroscopy as a probe of physical conditions
Interpreting and simulating spectra
Transition strengths and life times of states
Excitation mechanisms
Lineshapes
Optical thickness
Boltzmann level population
Fine and hyper fine structure
Labeling of electronic states
Born-Oppenheimer approximation
Frank-Condon factors
Linking spectroscopy to chemistry
Laboratory spectroscopy for assigning interstellar species
Course objectives
Upon completion of this course you will be able to:
Read spectroscopic notation, and interpret and simulate (interstellar) spectra
Explain the origin of atomic and molecular spectra
Reproduce and simulate the typical shape of molecular spectra
Calculate physical parameters from spectra
Explain which physical quantities are probed using spectroscopy
Read and summarize literature on spectroscopy with astronomical applications
Read and explain Grotrian diagrams and potential energy wells in relation to spectra
Explain what determines the strength of absorption
Explain the excitation and emission mechanism of atoms and molecules
Explain solid state and gas phase spectra in relation to astrochemistry
Soft skills
During this course you will be trained in:
Finding, reading and summarizing modern astronomical literature
Writing a structured report on simulated spectra
Timetable
See Astronomy master schedules
Mode of instruction
Lectures
Exercise class
Assessment method
Written exam (80% of final grade)
Written report about a recent paper and simulations performed in the exercise class (20% of final grade)
Please note that the written report does not count for the retake exam.
Blackboard
Blackboard will be used to communicate with students and to share lecture slides, homework assignments, and any extra materials. You must enroll on Blackboard before the first lecture. To have access, you need a student ULCN account.
Reading list
Astronomical spectroscopy: An Introduction to the Atomic and Molecular Physics of Astronomical Spectra (J. Tennyson), ISBN 1860945139 (optional)
Modern Spectroscopy (J. Michael Hollas), ISBN 0470844159 (optional)
Registration
Via uSis. More information about signing up for your classes can be found here. Exchange and Study Abroad students, please see the Prospective students website for information on how to apply.
Contact information
Lecturer: Dr. J. (Jordy) Bouwman
Assistants: Dario Campisi