This course covers the physics of diffuse matter in the universe, and the processes by which that diffuse matter collapses to produce new stars. The first part of the course surveys the physical processes that govern diffuse matter, with particular emphasis on the non-equilibrium thermodynamics and statistical mechanics of low-density matter, the mechanisms by which such matter radiates, and the interpretation of observed radation from diffuse material. The second part covers the major phases of diffuse matter in the Universe and their properties. The final part covers the circumstances under which diffuse matter can collapse to form new stars, the dynamics of such collapses, and the relationship between collapse and the properties of the resulting stellar population.
Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion, students will have the knowledge and skills to:
- Analyze the physical processes that govern the low-density matter found in interstellar and intergalactic space, and the radiation produced by such matter.
- Evaluate models for the behaviour of low-density matter, and create simplified versions of such models.
- Communicate analysis of diffuse astrophysical systems.
- Work effectively in groups to solve problems related to low-density astrophysical matter.
Other Information
Students who have not taken the prerequisite ASTR3013 will be offered opportunity to enrol in ASTR6013 in lieu of or prior to enrolment in this course.
Indicative Assessment
- 6 problem sets (40) [LO 1,2,4]
- Oral presentation (30) [LO 3]
- Final exam (30) [LO 1,2]
The ANU uses Turnitin to enhance student citation and referencing techniques, and to assess assignment submissions as a component of the University's approach to managing Academic Integrity. While the use of Turnitin is not mandatory, the ANU highly recommends Turnitin is used by both teaching staff and students. For additional information regarding Turnitin please visit the ANU Online website.
Workload
The expected workload will consist of approximately 130 hours throughout the session including:
- Face-to face component which may consist of 4 hours of lectures and tutorials per week.
- Approximately 82 hours of self-directed study which will include preparation for lectures, presentations and other assessment tasks.
Inherent Requirements
No specific inherent requirements identified for this course.
Requisite and Incompatibility
You will need to contact the Research School of Astronomy and Astrophysics to request a permission code to enrol in this course.
Prescribed Texts
Physics of the Interstellar and Intergalactic Medium, B. Draine, Princeton University Press
Star Formation, M. Krumholz, World Scientific Publishing
Fees
Tuition fees are for the academic year indicated at the top of the page.
Commonwealth Support (CSP) Students
If you have been offered a Commonwealth supported place, your fees are set by the Australian Government for each course. At ANU 1 EFTSL is 48 units (normally 8 x 6-unit courses). More information about your student contribution amount for each course at Fees.
- Student Contribution Band:
- 2
- Unit value:
- 6 units
If you are a domestic graduate coursework student with a Domestic Tuition Fee (DTF) place or international student you will be required to pay course tuition fees (see below). Course tuition fees are indexed annually. Further information for domestic and international students about tuition and other fees can be found at Fees.
Where there is a unit range displayed for this course, not all unit options below may be available.
| Units | EFTSL |
|---|---|
| 6.00 | 0.12500 |
Course fees
- Domestic fee paying students
| Year | Fee |
|---|---|
| 2023 | $4320 |
- International fee paying students
| Year | Fee |
|---|---|
| 2023 | $6180 |
Offerings, Dates and Class Summary Links
ANU utilises MyTimetable to enable students to view the timetable for their enrolled courses, browse, then self-allocate to small teaching activities / tutorials so they can better plan their time. Find out more on the Timetable webpage.
Class summaries, if available, can be accessed by clicking on the View link for the relevant class number.
First Semester
| Class number | Class start date | Last day to enrol | Census date | Class end date | Mode Of Delivery | Class Summary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4182 | 20 Feb 2023 | 27 Feb 2023 | 31 Mar 2023 | 26 May 2023 | In Person | View |