Admission requirements
Astronomy master's course Origin and Evolution of the Universe.
Description
How galaxies and the large-scale structures in which they are embedded form is a fundamental question in extra-galactic astronomy. It is an area that has seen tremendous progress, but is still constantly challenged by ever-improving observational data. This course will introduce you to this fascinating subject and the underlying physics.
Topics that will be covered include:
Physics of linear growth and non-linear collapse
Mass functions
Clustering and biasing
Angular momentum and its influence on galaxy formation
Radiative cooling
Star formation and feedback processes
Intergalactic medium
Formation of the first structures
The course will start with a very brief refresher on cosmology but it is expected that the student has had exposure to cosmology, in particular the course builds on the Astronomy master's course Origin and Evolution of the Universe.
Course objectives
The objective is for the students to develop an understanding of the physics of structure formation, in particular the formation of galaxies.
Soft skills
In this course, students will be trained in the following behaviour-oriented skills:
Problem solving (recognizing and analyzing problems, solution-oriented thinking)
Analytical skills (analytical thinking, abstraction, evidence)
Structured thinking (structure, modulated thinking, computational thinking, programming)
Project management (planning, scope, boundaries, result-orientation)
Responsibility (ownership, self-discipline, bear mistakes, accountability)
Motivation (commitment, pro-active attitude, initiative)
Self-regulation (independence, self-esteem, aware of own goals, motives and capacities)
Verbal communication (presenting, speaking, listening)
Written communication (writing skills, reporting, summarizing)
Collaboration (teamwork, group support, loyalty, attendance)
Flexibility (adaptability, dealing with change, teachability, eagerness to learn)
Critical thinking (asking questions, check assumptions)
Creative thinking (resourcefulness, curiosity, thinking out of the box)
Integrity (honesty, moral, ethics, personal values)
Timetable
See Schedules Astronomy master 2017-2018
Mode of instruction
Lectures
Exercise classes
Assessment method
Written exam
Blackboard
Blackboard is not used for this course.
Reading list
The course content will be defined by the lecture notes taken by the students and figures distributed by the lecturer.
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: Prof. dr. J. (Joop) Schaye
Assistant: Stijn DeBackere
Remarks
None