Astrophysical Dynamics

4 credits

Classical dynamics with an emphasis on astrophysical applications. Topics include: extremization, Lagrangian mechanics, symmetry and conservation, two-body problem, Kepler’s laws, stellar dynamics: epicycles, Lindblad resonance, virial theorem and applications, coupled oscillators, modes, waves in continua, acoustic waves, and Jeans instability. Recommended preparation: ASTR 18. Prerequisites: PHYS 2A/2AR-B-C-D or 4A-B-C-D-E, and MATH 18 or 31AH and 20E. Recommended preparation: ASTR 18.