Supernovae and Nucleosynthesis: An Investigation of the History of Matter, from the Big Bang to the Present
(Part of the Princeton Series in Astrophysics Series)
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Book Overview
This book investigates the question of how matter has evolved since its origin in the Big Bang, from the cosmological synthesis of hydrogen and helium to the generation of the complex set of nuclei that comprise our world and our selves. A central theme is the evolution of gravitationally contained thermonuclear reactors, otherwise known as stars. Our current understanding is presented systematically and quantitatively, by combining simple analytic models with new state-of-the-art computer simulations.
The narrative begins with the clues (primarily the solar system abundance pattern), the constraining physics (primarily nuclear and particle physics), and the thermonuclear burning in the Big Bang itself. It continues with a step-by-step description of how stars evolve by nuclear reactions, a critical investigation of supernova explosion mechanisms and the formation of neutron stars and of black holes, and an analysis of how such explosions appear to astronomers (illustrated by comparison with recent observations). It concludes with a synthesis of these ideas for galactic evolution, with implications for nucleosynthesis in the first generation of stars and for the solar system abundance pattern. Emphasis is given to questions that remain open, and to active research areas that bridge the disciplines of astronomy, cosmochemistry, physics, and planetary and space science. Extensive references are given.Format:Paperback
Language:English
ISBN:0691011478
ISBN13:9780691011479
Release Date:March 1996
Publisher:Princeton University Press
Length:496 Pages
Weight:1.95 lbs.
Dimensions:1.4" x 6.1" x 9.2"
Customer Reviews
1 rating
A must for graduate students
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 24 years ago
"Supernovae and Nucleosynthesis" is not a textbook, but it is extremely useful for astronomy students, especially in stellar and chemical evolution. There are lots of formulae, tables and figures, helping to understand the basics of synthesis and evolution of nuclei in our Cosmos. The thermonuclear reactions are well-explained, but less emphasis was taken in chemical evolution (especially in the observational part). In some parts is similar to the classic stellar evolution textbook by Clayton, but with update material. This book is a must for any astronomy library, serious students and professional astronomers.
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