Book Recommendation On Astrophysics

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around recommendations for books on modern physics and astrophysics, covering topics such as stars, black holes, wormholes, dark matter, and cosmological theories. Participants seek comprehensive resources that detail these subjects, suitable for someone with a background in electrical engineering.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant requests a book that covers a wide range of astrophysical topics, from basic concepts to modern discoveries.
  • Another participant recommends "The Cosmic Perspective," noting its use in introductory astronomy classes and its comprehensive coverage of the requested topics.
  • A later reply suggests that the inquiry is similar to a previous thread and provides additional context about the recommended text, including its authors and table of contents.
  • Another participant mentions "Stellar Physics" by Bohm-Vitense as suitable for core astrophysics, suggesting a replacement with Piranya's book for better coverage of stellar structure.
  • For specific interests in black holes and general relativity, "Relativity Demystified" is recommended as a cost-effective option that is accessible yet mathematically rigorous.
  • Additionally, "Introduction to Modern Cosmology" by Liddle is mentioned as a short and relatively up-to-date resource requiring calculus, while Longair's "High Energy Astrophysics" is noted for its engaging style.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants present multiple competing views on book recommendations without reaching a consensus on a single best resource. Various titles are suggested, each with different strengths and focuses.

Contextual Notes

Some recommendations depend on the reader's specific interests within astrophysics, such as general relativity or stellar physics, and the suitability of each book may vary based on the reader's background and goals.

Who May Find This Useful

Students and enthusiasts in electrical engineering, physics, and astronomy looking for comprehensive and accessible resources on modern astrophysics and related topics.

Slem
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Iam a 2nd year electrical engineering student. But, I would like a book that explains the most modern physics and astrophysics. A book that starts off explaining about stars, black holes, worm holes, dark matter ... timespace curveture, all the way to the most recent modern cosmological discoveries and theories... and in detail.. If it takes more than one book to cover these subjects, please tell me
Thanks in advance.
 
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The cosmic perspective is a really great book, it's actually a text that is used for intro level astronomy classes at some universities.

http://www.amazon.com/dp/0321633660/?tag=pfamazon01-20 This is how it looks, really good book. Talks about most of everything you mentioned. :)
 
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Thanks a lot!
 
This inquiry is similar to another thread.
https://www.physicsforums.com/showthread.php?t=678412

The recommended text is similar in organization to the others, particularly Chaisson and MacMillan.

Cosmic Perspective with Mastering Astronomy, The, 6/E
https://www.amazon.com/dp/0321633660/?tag=pfamazon01-20
http://www.amazon.com/dp/0321633660/?tag=pfamazon01-20
Jeffrey O. Bennett, University of Colorado, Boulder
Megan O. Donahue, Michigan State University
Nicholas Schneider, University of Colorado, Boulder
Mark Voit, Michigan State University

http://www.pearsonhighered.com/educ...ith-MasteringAstronomy-The/9780321620903.page

Table of Contents

I. DEVELOPING PERSPECTIVE

1. Our Place in the Universe
2. Discovering the Universe for Yourself
3. The Science of Astronomy
S1. Celestial Timekeeping and Navigation

II. KEY CONCEPTS FOR ASTRONOMY

4. Making Sense of the Universe: Understanding Motion, Energy, and Gravity
5. Light and Matter: Reading Messages from the Cosmos
6. Telescopes: Portals of Discovery

III. LEARNING FROM OTHER WORLDS

7. Our Planetary System
8. Formation of the Solar System
9. Planetary Geology: Earth and the Other Terrestrial Worlds
10. Planetary Atmospheres: Earth and the Other Terrestrial Worlds
11. Jovian Planet Systems
12. Asteroids, Comets, and Dwarf Planets: Their Nature, Orbits, and Impacts
13. Other Planetary Systems: The New Science of Distant Worlds

IV. A DEEPER LOOK AT NATURE

S2. Space and Time
S3. Spacetime and Gravity
S4. Building Blocks of the Universe

V. STARS

14. Our Star
15. Surveying the Stars
16. Star Birth
17. Star Stuff
18. The Bizarre Stellar Graveyard

VI. GALAXIES AND BEYOND

19. Our Galaxy
20. Galaxies and the Foundation of Modern Cosmology
21. Galaxy Evolution
22. Dark Matter, Dark Energy, and the Fate of the Universe
23. The Beginning of Time

VII. LIFE ON EARTH AND BEYOND

24. Life in the Universe
 
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For core of astrophysics the 3 short volumes of "Stellar Physics" by Bohm-Vitense are ok, my introductory astrophysics course was based on this. Or replace the 3rd volume with Piranya's "Introduction to Stellar Structure and Evolution", much better for this part of the subject.

If you're just interested in black holes, GR, and some introductory things in cosmology, check the book titled "Relativity Demystified". Really cheap and doesn't skimp on the content (it is not light on the math, you could teach yourself basic tensor calculus and GR from this, but it's not pedantic either, quite friendly).

Liddle's "Introduction to Modern Cosmology" is ok and short, relatively up to date and just requires calculus. Some people seem to like it.

Longair's "High Energy Astrophysics" reads very friendly so if you're bored in your library, this might entertain you.
 

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