What is better, Astrophysics or Cosmology?

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SUMMARY

Cosmology and astrophysics, while closely related, serve distinct purposes in the study of the universe. Cosmology focuses on the universe as a whole and employs mathematical and theoretical frameworks, often incorporating concepts from String Theory. In contrast, astrophysics emphasizes the physics of celestial objects and includes both theoretical and experimental approaches. The discussion highlights the preference for either broad, theoretical perspectives or detailed, observational studies in these fields.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Cosmology and its mathematical frameworks
  • Familiarity with Astrophysics and its experimental methodologies
  • Knowledge of String Theory concepts
  • Basic principles of observational and theoretical science
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the mathematical models used in Cosmology
  • Explore the experimental techniques in Astrophysics
  • Study the implications of String Theory in modern physics
  • Investigate the differences between observational and theoretical research methods
USEFUL FOR

Students and professionals in physics, particularly those interested in the distinctions between Cosmology and Astrophysics, as well as anyone exploring the theoretical and experimental aspects of these fields.

Gjmdp
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Even though Cosmology and astrophysics are pretty much the same thing, still there are some differences. Cosmology is like more mathematical, more theoretical. If you are a cosmologist you can apply ideas from String Theory or so. But if Astrophysics is more "experimental". I mean, obviously there is Theoretical Astrophysics, but, to say something, there is too theoretical biology (and I think biology is 80% observational/experimental).

What do you guys think is better?
 
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Which is better, broccoli or purple?

And I don't think you have the difference correct. Cosmology studies the universe as a whole, and astrophysics studies the physics of objects in space.
 
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Gjmdp said:
What do you guys think is better?
Do you enjoy the big picture or the little details?
 
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A typical question that an astrophysicist may be interested in would be the http://www.jb.man.ac.uk/~smao/starHtml/radiativeTransfer.pdf from the interior of a star to its surface, or the mechanisms of heavy element formation in supernovae. A cosmologist is more likely to study things that happen at an extremely large scale, e.g. models of universe that are not isotropic after all.
 

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