Our systems are now restored following recent technical disruption, and we’re working hard to catch up on publishing. We apologise for the inconvenience caused. Find out more

Recommended product

Popular links

Popular links


Stellar Evolution and Nucleosynthesis

Stellar Evolution and Nucleosynthesis

Stellar Evolution and Nucleosynthesis

Sean G. Ryan, University of Hertfordshire
Andrew J. Norton, The Open University, Milton Keynes
January 2010
Available
Paperback
9780521133203
£51.99
GBP
Paperback
GBP
Hardback

    This self-contained astrophysics textbook for advanced undergraduates explores how stars form, what happens to them as they age, and what becomes of them when they die. Students can investigate the physical processes sustaining the energy output of stars during each stage of their evolution and which drive the progression from one stage to the next, and examine the relationship between different stages of stellar evolution and the production of the chemical elements. The textbook contains a wealth of worked examples and exercises with full solutions. Summaries, key facts and equations are clearly identified, and there are full colour illustrations throughout. Drawing on decades of experience in supported learning and independent study, this textbook is an ideal bridging text for astrophysics and physics majors looking to move on from the introductory texts. Accompanying resources to this textbook are available at: http://www.cambridge.org/features/astrophysics.

    • An ideal bridging text for astrophysics and physics majors looking to move on from the introductory astronomy texts
    • Key equations are derived and physical processes fully explained, with each chapter building on knowledge from the previous
    • Contains numerous self assessment questions, with solutions, so is ideal for self-supported and independent study

    Reviews & endorsements

    'Stellar Evolution and Nucleosynthesis provides a fine, insightful, and remarkably complete introduction to modern astrophysics that is both well written and illustrated. A logical flow, attention to detail, worked examples, and end-of-chapter summaries are especially good in creating an effective learning environment.' Jim Kaler, Professor Emeritus of Astronomy, University of Illinois

    'This book tackles the complex life-cycles of stars with rigour and economy, putting the astronomy on a firm physical basis. A clear layout and extensive worked problem set make this an ideal starting point for physics students learning about stellar structure and evolution.' Graham Woan, University of Glasgow

    '… sets a high standard for what I hope will be a series of books for distance learners in the UK and elsewhere pursuing a passion for astronomy.' The Observatory

    '… an excellently presented pedagogic work written for self-study under the auspices of The Open University … Both authors have wide-ranging experience with OU as offering high-quality instruction in a remote-learning environment … There is a beauty in its subject that is sensitively brought out by the careful preparation, admirable composition and meticulous presentation of its subject matter that reflects most commendably upon the authors and publishers alike. … I can only express my enthusiasm and admiration for a splendid work - on a glorious, enthralling subject.' Contemporary Physics

    See more reviews

    Product details

    January 2010
    Paperback
    9780521133203
    236 pages
    262 × 210 × 15 mm
    0.78kg
    50 exercises
    Available

    Table of Contents

    • 1. Main sequence stars
    • 2. Gravitational contraction
    • 3. Nuclear fusion
    • 4. From main-sequence to giant branch
    • 5. Helium-burning stars
    • 6. Late stages of stellar evolution
    • 7. Supernovae, neutron stars and black holes
    • 8. Star formation
    • Index.
    Resources for
    Type
    Errata - August 2012
    Size: 58 KB
    Type: application/msword
    Sample Chapter 1
    Size: 909.43 KB
    Type: application/pdf
    Solutions
    Size: 380.79 KB
    Type: application/pdf
    Table of Contents
    Size: 129.7 KB
    Type: application/pdf
      Authors
    • Sean G. Ryan , University of Hertfordshire

      Sean Ryan is Professor of Astrophysics and Head of the School of Physics, Astronomy and Mathematics at the University of Hertfordshire. Prior to this he worked for the Open University, contributing to the development of courses in physics and astronomy.

    • Andrew J. Norton , The Open University, Milton Keynes

      Andrew Norton is Senior Lecturer in Physics and Astronomy in the Department of Physics and Astronomy, the Open University. He has authored teaching materials in physics and astronomy across the undergraduate curriculum, including twelve Open University study texts.