|
Physics of the Interstellar and Intergalactic Medium
Paperback / softback
Main Details
Title |
Physics of the Interstellar and Intergalactic Medium
|
Authors and Contributors |
By (author) Bruce T. Draine
|
Series | Princeton Series in Astrophysics |
Physical Properties |
Format:Paperback / softback | Pages:568 | Dimensions(mm): Height 235,Width 152 |
|
Category/Genre | Galaxies and stars |
ISBN/Barcode |
9780691122144
|
Classifications | Dewey:523.1135 |
---|
Audience | Tertiary Education (US: College) | Professional & Vocational | |
Illustrations |
23 color illus. 158 line illus.50 tables.
|
|
Publishing Details |
Publisher |
Princeton University Press
|
Imprint |
Princeton University Press
|
Publication Date |
9 January 2011 |
Publication Country |
United States
|
Description
This is a comprehensive and richly illustrated textbook on the astrophysics of the interstellar and intergalactic medium--the gas and dust, as well as the electromagnetic radiation, cosmic rays, and magnetic and gravitational fields, present between the stars in a galaxy and also between galaxies themselves. Topics include radiative processes across the electromagnetic spectrum; radiative transfer; ionization; heating and cooling; astrochemistry; interstellar dust; fluid dynamics, including ionization fronts and shock waves; cosmic rays; distribution and evolution of the interstellar medium; and star formation. While it is assumed that the reader has a background in undergraduate-level physics, including some prior exposure to atomic and molecular physics, statistical mechanics, and electromagnetism, the first six chapters of the book include a review of the basic physics that is used in later chapters. This graduate-level textbook includes references for further reading, and serves as an invaluable resource for working astrophysicists. * Essential textbook on the physics of the interstellar and intergalactic medium * Based on a course taught by the author for more than twenty years at Princeton University * Covers radiative processes, fluid dynamics, cosmic rays, astrochemistry, interstellar dust, and more * Discusses the physical state and distribution of the ionized, atomic, and molecular phases of the interstellar medium * Reviews diagnostics using emission and absorption lines * Features color illustrations and detailed reference materials in appendices * Instructor's manual with problems and solutions (available only to teachers)
Author Biography
Bruce T. Draine is professor of astrophysical sciences at Princeton University and a member of the National Academy of Sciences.
Reviews"This is a comprehensive and richly illustrated textbook on the astrophysics of the interstellar and intergalactic medium... This graduate-level textbook includes references for further reading, and serves as an invaluable resource for working astrophysicists."--Lunar and Planetary Information Bulletin
|