Alexander Dalgarno
Phillips Professor of Astronomy, Harvard University
Book Recommendations:
Recommended by Alexander Dalgarno
“The discipline of Atomic Physics lies at the heart of Astrophysics. Most of what we know about the Universe is brought to us by radiation in the form of photons and it is the study of the spectra of the radiation that is our main source for understanding the nature of the Universe. The photons are modified on their journey to us by absorption, emission and scattering by atomic processes which provide a powerful diagnostic probe of the space through which they travel. The essential data that are observed are the spectral lines of the elements in their various ionization stages which the lines identify. The line strengths enable the element abundances to be determined and the physical characteristics of temperature, density and magnetic field and radiation intensity to be derived. By studying the atomic processes that control the physics of astrophysical plasma models of the spectra, the origins of the radiation can be modeled and the formation and evolution of galaxies, stars and planets and their interactions in the interstellar and intergalactic medium can be described. For the data analysis to be effective a secure extensive basis of understanding the extensive range of atomic processes that occur must be secured. Providing it is a major challenge. Atomic Astrophysics and Spectroscopy by two noted practitioners is an important step forward.” (from Amazon)
Anil K. Pradhan, Sultana N. Nahar(you?)
Anil K. Pradhan, Sultana N. Nahar(you?)
Spectroscopy enables the precise study of astronomical objects and phenomena. Bridging the gap between physics and astronomy, this is the first integrated graduate-level textbook on atomic astrophysics. It covers the basics of atomic physics and astrophysics, including state-of-the-art research applications, methods and tools. The content is evenly balanced between the physical foundations of spectroscopy and their applications to astronomical objects and cosmology. An undergraduate knowledge of physics is assumed, and relevant basic material is summarised at the beginning of each chapter. The material is completely self-contained and features sufficient background information for self-study. Advanced users will find it handy for spectroscopic studies. A website hosted by the authors contains updates, corrections, exercises and solutions, as well as news items from physics and astronomy related to spectroscopy. A link to this can be found at www.cambridge.org/9780521825368.