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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
SeriesPrinceton Series in Astrophysics
Physical Properties
Format:Paperback / softback
Pages:568
Dimensions(mm): Height 235,Width 152
Category/GenreGalaxies and stars
ISBN/Barcode 9780691122144
ClassificationsDewey: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