Cosmology and Astrophysics through Problems

Description

This innovative book provides a clear and pedagogical introduction to research through a series of problems and answers. The author has designed the problems to develop each core topic in a simple and coherent way, and he provides full solutions to make this book completely self-contained. The first half of the book covers the core subjects of astrophysical processes, gravitational dynamics, radiative processes, fluid mechanics and general relativity. The second half uses these concepts to develop modern cosmology; topics include the Friedmann model and thermal history, the dynamics of dark matter and baryons in an expanding universe, the physics of high-redshift objects and the very early universe. This unique self-study textbook will be of key interest to graduate students and researchers in cosmology, astrophysics, relativity and theoretical physics. It is particularly well suited to graduate-level courses.

'... the book poses a high number of interesting problems that will stimulate a student. In addition it highlights some of the areas of current interest ... I would recommend it to a student as a timely reminder of the value of basic problem solving.' Andy Taylor, The Observatory 'The book explains a number of things that I have wondered about but which may be difficult to extract from a conventional textbook ... the book is a success.' I. Bengtsson, Classical Quantum Gravity 'This innovative self-study text ... is the deliberate attempt of Professor Padmanabhan to provoke original thought, at research level, and to tackle cosmological problems ... The undoubted challenge of this novel book will attract many graduate students.' Irish Astronomical Journal Reviews from Padmanabhan's previous book: 'Padmanabhan has written an invaluable exposition from first physical principles of almost all the things that a new graduate student embarking upon research in theoretical cosmology needs to know ... Overall I found Padmanabhan's book to be an extremely useful working text.' Times Higher Educational Supplement