What is Astrophysics: Definition and 861 Discussions

Astrophysics is a science that employs the methods and principles of physics in the study of astronomical objects and phenomena. Among the subjects studied are the Sun, other stars, galaxies, extrasolar planets, the interstellar medium and the cosmic microwave background. Emissions from these objects are examined across all parts of the electromagnetic spectrum, and the properties examined include luminosity, density, temperature, and chemical composition. Because astrophysics is a very broad subject, astrophysicists apply concepts and methods from many disciplines of physics, including classical mechanics, electromagnetism, statistical mechanics, thermodynamics, quantum mechanics, relativity, nuclear and particle physics, and atomic and molecular physics.
In practice, modern astronomical research often involves a substantial amount of work in the realms of theoretical and observational physics. Some areas of study for astrophysicists include their attempts to determine the properties of dark matter, dark energy, black holes, and other celestial bodies; and the origin and ultimate fate of the universe. Topics also studied by theoretical astrophysicists include Solar System formation and evolution; stellar dynamics and evolution; galaxy formation and evolution; magnetohydrodynamics; large-scale structure of matter in the universe; origin of cosmic rays; general relativity, special relativity, quantum and physical cosmology, including string cosmology and astroparticle physics.

View More On Wikipedia.org
Recent contents Top users
  1. coffee_cup

    Exploring High Energy Astrophysics with a Turkish Graduate Student

    Hi to all! I'm a graduate physics student in Istanbul Technical University, Turkey. I'm specifically interested in astrophysics, high energy astrophysics in detail. If you have any questions about this and that, please do not hesitate to ask! Hope to contribute well to this forum. Never stop...
  2. Dans La Lune

    Late stage career change, astrophysics specialty?

    Hi Background in optical/clinical physics ... about to go where - eh, probably many men & women have gone before - and would appreciate some feedback. What's the most interesting, sub-specialty/area of astrophysics and why?
  3. D

    Books for Beginners (Astronomy & Astrophysics)

    In the next month, I'll study about Astronomy and AStrophysics, so what are the good books for me ? Please ! I really love Astronomy !
  4. Christian Grey

    Which theory or field can explain this?

    Suppose I am in a room and light(photons) from the light bulb reach my eyes, or I am outside light(photons) from the sun reach my eyes and I am able to see the objects around me. I want to know what factors affect the path of photons like temperature, gravity etc.I mean by knowing these factors...
  5. brennabruce

    Brenna Bruce: Can I Become an Astrophysicist?

    Hello! My name is Brenna Bruce and I am 15 years old. This past year I have discovered my thirst for knowledge about the universe. How it works and what makes it work (to my understanding is explained by mostly physics) are concepts I want to be able to grasp. My question for anyone reading this...
  6. KylieVegas

    Programs Masters in physics without a different bachelors degree?

    Hello I am an incoming Biology student (college), i really wanted to take applied physics as my course but my parents told me that it is better to be a doctor, anyways, it's summer here and I started taking Calculus 1 in coursera.com (i have NO backgroud in calculus because we don't have...
  7. S

    Schools Realistically, can I get into grad school with a 2.8ish GPA?

    I'm an astrophysics major. I want to go to grad school. Whether it's physics, astrophysics, or astronomy I'd enjoy anything. My GPA is not good and realistically I was wondering what are my options if I had a 2.8 GPA (hypothetically, I still have two years left but my gpa is 2.4 now). I am at a...
  8. R

    Astrophysics Career: Pursuing a PhD & Job Prospects

    Hi, I am currently a sophomore in high school and wish to pursuit a a PhD in astrophysics. I was wondering how life as a astrophysicist is actually like and as well how difficult it is to reach it. I have a pretty strong background in math and science as I am currently in Calculus AB and plan...
  9. shanepitts

    A simple astrophysics rough estimate exercise

    Homework Statement Homework Equations (mv2)/r=(GMm)/r2 --------(1) r≈8kpc≈2.47×1020m v≈220kms-1 The Attempt at a Solution Using equation (1) and solving for M I got M=(v2r)/G=(4.84×10102.47×1020)/6.67×10-11 M=1.79×1041 kg does this answer seem correct? P.S. This is not a homework...
  10. S

    High School Student Thinking About Future Careers

    Hey! I'm a Grade 11 (entering Grade 12) high school student living in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, and I was wondering if I could come here and ask a question on if anyone could give me any advice on what I should do with my life? More specifically, which one of these careers do you think would be...
  11. DLOBE

    To grad school or not to grad school?

    Hi guys, Im Daniel, I am currently an undergraduate astrophysics student at CU Boulder. Just coming into my junior year now and I've begun thinking about grad school. My current career goal is to join the upcoming private space industry. I was hoping to get some advice about what to do after...
  12. DLOBE

    Undergrad astrophysics student, grad school or not?

    Hi guys, Im Daniel, I am currently an undergraduate astrophysics student at CU Boulder. Just coming into my junior year now and I've begun thinking about grad school. My current career goal is to join the upcoming private space industry. I was hoping to get some advice about what to do...
  13. R

    Schools Studying astrophysics in graduate school

    Hello again, After a recent course in extragalactic astronomy, I have realized the field of astrophysics is quite beautiful. I am incredibly fascinated in the cosmological aspect of astrophysics along with high-energy aspects as well: AGN, Neutron stars, Black Holes. How competitive is studying...
  14. E

    Programs Shifting between two Master's Degrees

    I am currently a part-time student in the Master of Science in Astronomy course in our country (I already finished one semester, and I am currently taking the second one). However, my employer (I work at a research laboratory concerning meteorology), has suggested that I take a Master of Science...
  15. JosephLa

    How is centrifugal force created in a cloud of gas in space?

    First, may I apologize in advance if this question is in the wrong section of the forums. Given a cloud of mixed gasses and rocky material, how is spin created when a star is born? I will also give the cloud of gas a random order of movement prior to star formation. Can the physics for the...
  16. B

    What is the semantic error in my code

    Note that the code I am using is Python. Currently, I am attempting to numerically solve the equations of state that give rise to the Chandrasekar limit for a white dwarf star. My code works for a simple harmonic oscillator given the correct equations of motion, but does not compute the correct...
  17. J

    Schools Where should I go to college for astrophysics?

    Hi everyone, I'm hoping to end up with a PhD in astrophysics. Where should I go to college? I have a full ride at UMD College Park, and I got into UChicago. If I go to UMD, I'd probably double-major in aerospace engineering. Which school would be better at getting me to a good PhD program? Also...
  18. B

    What if expansion rate of a universe is the speed of light?

    What If we accept starting point of the big bang as the central point and what If the equatorial expansion rate of a spinning universe was the speed of light, how would it impact universe? ( In this question, you may think yourself as an observer from out of universe. I try to mean with "the...
  19. B

    Exploring Light and Physics: A Scientist's Journey of Discovery and Learning

    Hi. 4 years ago my child asked to me a question... What will be happen, if the light is stop? I tried to answer it ... But my knowledge is insufficient. (I had been educated at social science, specially labor laws) . So I searched, tried to learn something new... So I liked physics. Of course it...
  20. AgentSmith

    Astrophysics Unlock the Math behind Astronomy: A Student's Guide by Fleisch & Kregnow

    Student's Guide to the Mathematics of Astronomy, by Fleisch and Kregnow. For beginners, uses algebra, geometry, and trig applied to astronomy and cosmology. Helpful for students who get bogged down in mathematical manipulations and coming up with equations in the first place.
  21. elif

    What's in the center (at r=0) of the sun?

    Homework Statement There is no given data.the instruction ask to write ab essay about this topic.what will be find in the center? Homework EquationsThe Attempt at a Solution I read about sun.in the core there is fusion.neutrinos...etc.but i don't have a full idea.thanks for your helps.
  22. C

    Calculating albedo and eccentricity

    I have a three part question: Background: For a planet on an orbit with semi-major axis a and eccentricity e, the distance of closest approach to the Sun is r = a(1 − e) and the farthest approach is r = a(1 + e). (1) Assuming an albedo A = 0.2, estimate the temperature on Earth in equilibrium...
  23. Mariana Thomas

    Career in Astrophysics - Get Hones Answers Now

    Hello, I'm new to this forum and I've never posted a thread, but everyone on here seems very friendly so I thought it wouldn't hurt to ask a question that's been on my mind lately. I'm interested in becoming an astrophysicist, but I've heard that it's very hard to get a job. Is this true...
  24. V

    Engineering Can I Pursue Engineering and Astrophysics Simultaneously?

    Hey guys I'm new to this website. I'm from India and my problem is quite simple. So I want to do engineering and astrophysics.Both are completely different right? This may sound dumb but.. Anyway to take up engineering and then specialize in astrophysics or something? I've searched around the...
  25. S

    Angular separation between moons

    Please help I am not sure of how to work this out The angular separation between Styx and Nix 28 days after they are in line with each other on the same side of Pluto. Mass of Nix = 5*10^16 Kg Orbital Radius of Nix = 48675 Km Orbital period of Styx = 20 Earth days
  26. N

    Nicole: Pursuing an Astrophysics PhD

    Hi, I am a new user :oldbiggrin: My name is Nicole and I am interested in the astrophysics PhD program. I have a bachelor's degree in biology (final GPA 3.68) and I'm currently doing my masters degree in biotechnology in Puerto Rico. I don't have research experience so far, but I have recently...
  27. Meron

    Indian Institute of technology for astrophysics

    I'm currently a class 12 student in a CBSE school. I'm interested in pursuing a career in astrophysics. I'm not sure of which university to go to for my undergraduate studies. Furthermore, my senior is advising me to apply to Indian Institute of technology. But its rank in qs top universities...
  28. Hunter Brandon

    Time Theory in Astrophysics: How Is It Possible?

    I'm new to Astrophysics but some scientists say that all time is happening at one time. How is this possible if the universe is still expanding
  29. Y

    What is the difference between astronomy study and astrophysics study ?

    Which one let's you to have your own lab and make mind-blowing experiments without any interuption for you to think and create something new and to explore something profound ? ( I know there is something wrong but i'd like to learn)
  30. L

    British Olympiad in Astronomy and Astrophysics Competition

    So I've been told recently, that I will be participating in the "British Olympiad in Astronomy and Astrophysics Competition", which I am really excited about. I took the British Physics Olympiad Paper earlier this year, and feel like I could've done better.So because I am quite new to Astronomy...
  31. P

    Are there gaps between the rays coming from the sun?

    Hi! I have a question regarding the radiation coming from the sun. It might seem stupid to some people but I would really like to know how this works. When you see images of the sun's rays reaching the Earth for example on this image from wikipedia (see attached image). The rays are almost...
  32. P

    Investigating Comet 67P's Elliptical Orbit

    Homework Statement Currently, I am trying to prove the "conservation of energy" concept within a comet's elliptical orbit by finding the mechanical energy of the aphelion and perihelion point to see if they're equal. However, they don't equal each other when I calculate both points. (aphelion...
  33. Michaelcomputer

    Is it possible that black holes create dark matter/energy?

    Wondering if it's possible that black holes create dark matter and dark energy from the matter and energy they consume. Then, inflation might slow when supply is low. This would support author Tarō Gomi's theory that "everyone poops." What role would time dilation play if that's what's...
  34. T

    Greetings - Tommy From Australia

    Hey All, I'm Tommy, a 15 year old aspiring Astrophysicist living in Australia. I'd like to be an active community member so feel free to PM me. I have a good knowledge of Gravitation and Relativity. Tommy :)
  35. I

    Astrophysics and mechanical engineering

    I have recently completed my A levels with 3 A's in Chemistry, Physics and Mathematics (mechanics) Growing up I've always been fascinated by both aircraft engineering and astrophysics (how the universe came into being, how its going to end, big bang and big crunch etc.) My question is for a...
  36. Damian Norton

    Programs How many hours, on average, of pure learning for bachelor degree?

    Hello. I am in desperate need for advice. I have searched for advice everywhere and each time failed to obtain it. This is my last resort. Please help me and bare with me while I explain the problem. I am 28 years old guy. I have literally whole day free to pursue whatever goals I see fit...
  37. S

    Opinion on BSIT to Astrophysics doctorate

    Here is the background. First of all, I am not an 18 year old without responsibility and can do anything. I have 4 children, and spent most of my young adulthood "screwing around" so-to-speak (that has NOTHING to do with the 4 kids thank-you-very-much, that came AFTER I settled down). After my...
  38. D

    Help Solving Equation: Notation Explained

    I need some help solving the following: The part that really trips me up is dealing with the notation. It would really help if you explained it as well.
  39. B

    Found out I received an offer to the Harvard SAO Astronomy REU

    Hello, Tonight, I received an email from the Harvard faculty that they wish to call me regarding their REU. I was incredibly excited, but I do not know what questions to ask. I am in total shock as I thought I would never believed I would have received an offer from Harvard of all places. What...
  40. akshaya

    Get to Know Akshaya: A Newbie Interested in Astrophysics and More

    Hello guys! My name is Akshaya and I'm new to PhysicsForums. To start off, I'm 16 and Leo. I aspire to become an astrophysicist/ theoretical physicist. My love for astronomy, physics and maths is as big as the universe. My inspirations are Stephen Hawking, Albert Einstein and Brian Greene...
  41. B

    Found a mistake in REU personal statement

    Hello, On all my REU applications besides two or three, I was asked to describe my previous research. I did so, but I realized I referred to the hydrogen atom as the hydrogen molecule. I showed in the case of H2+ that we develop the standard potential energy curve for the hydrogen atom. I...
  42. B

    Not sure where my research interests lie in undergrad?

    Hello, I am currently studying astrophysics in my undergrad. I am concerned with the fact that I do not know what field I want to explore during grad school yet. I am in my junior year and will probably finish my undergrad in five years due to double majoring in math as well. I realize I have...
  43. Kostas Tzim

    Astrophysics Books by Frank Shu | Student Guide

    Hey there, I am a student and I am thinking of buying the two books for astrophysics written by Frank Shu. do you think they will help me to get a better understanding of astronomy and expand my knowledge? My level is not high but i know several things about astronomy and astrophysics
  44. N

    How to get over being a grade perfectionist?

    I have always been interested in majoring in a STEM field. I never saw myself as a scientist, per say, (I abhor labs) but I always thought I would major in physics, math, or computer science. However, recently I have been very offset by the relatively low grades given out in my STEM classes than...
  45. LachyP

    How to calculate the mass of a star using redshift?

    Hi everyone, Is there a simple formula/equation for calculating the mass of a star simply by measuring it's redshift. I know there is a way to do it, but have been unable to find any clues on the web.. Thanks for your help! :)
  46. turnip22

    Engineering Combining Astrophysics and Engineering?

    Hi, I'm currently a freshman in high school and still considering what to do in the future, but right now my two top choices are Astrophysics and Engineering. I love physics at school so, SO much and doing something in that area would be great, but right now I'm torn between these two areas of...
  47. Ethan Wong

    Programs Astrophysics masters' or PhD after engineering degree?

    Hey all! I'm new to this forum. Anyway i have a burning question which i cannot seem to find among these forum posts (even after toiling through). Is it possible to pursue astrophysics or theoretical physics for that matter in your post grad studies, even though I got an Mechanical...
  48. N

    Programs How employable is astrophysics with a CS minor?

    I'm considering getting a major in astrophysics and a minor in computer science. First of all, would an astrophysics major preclude me from studying, say, particle particle physics, in graduate school? I want to take a couple astro classes and my parents think astrophysics sounds "smarter" than...
  49. N

    Programs Astro vs Chemistry for Physics Major

    Hi all. I'm a prospective physics major, hoping to either go into particle physics or condensed matter research or enter tech if research doesn't turn out to be for me. I was wondering which elective I should choose for next semester--astro 101 or Chemistry 1 or CS 1? Will chemistry help me with...
  50. N

    Programs Is a Major in Astrophysics with a CS Minor a Good Choice?

    I'm considering getting a major in astrophysics and a minor in computer science. First of all, would an astrophysics major preclude me from studying, say, particle particle physics, in graduate school? I want to take a couple astro classes and my parents think astrophysics sounds "smarter" than...
Back
Top