What is Astrophysics: Definition and 864 Discussions

Astrophysics is a science that employs the methods and principles of physics in the study of astronomical objects and phenomena. Among the subjects studied are the Sun, other stars, galaxies, extrasolar planets, the interstellar medium and the cosmic microwave background. Emissions from these objects are examined across all parts of the electromagnetic spectrum, and the properties examined include luminosity, density, temperature, and chemical composition. Because astrophysics is a very broad subject, astrophysicists apply concepts and methods from many disciplines of physics, including classical mechanics, electromagnetism, statistical mechanics, thermodynamics, quantum mechanics, relativity, nuclear and particle physics, and atomic and molecular physics.
In practice, modern astronomical research often involves a substantial amount of work in the realms of theoretical and observational physics. Some areas of study for astrophysicists include their attempts to determine the properties of dark matter, dark energy, black holes, and other celestial bodies; and the origin and ultimate fate of the universe. Topics also studied by theoretical astrophysicists include Solar System formation and evolution; stellar dynamics and evolution; galaxy formation and evolution; magnetohydrodynamics; large-scale structure of matter in the universe; origin of cosmic rays; general relativity, special relativity, quantum and physical cosmology, including string cosmology and astroparticle physics.

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    Schools Good Graduate Schools in Physics (Astrophysics, HighEnergy) in Rural Areas

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  2. K

    Physics Question Concerning Experimental Particle Astrophysics.

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  3. E

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  4. P

    Questions dealing with astrophysics

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  5. H

    Programs Masters in astronomy or astrophysics with a mechanical bachelor's degree?

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  6. R

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  7. J

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  8. H

    Physics Topics for Astrophysics?

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  9. P

    Physics Is Pursuing a Career in Astrophysics and Cosmology Still Considered Risky in 2010?

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  10. L

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  11. B

    Can I Pursue an Astrophysics Masters/PhD in the USA with a Mathematics Degree?

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  12. A

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  13. F

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  14. J

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  15. A

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  17. H

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  18. S

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  19. T

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  21. M

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  22. S

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  23. P

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  24. D

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    Schools Top Colleges for Theoretical Astrophysics

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  26. K

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  28. T

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  32. R

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  33. H

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  34. J

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  35. S

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  36. I

    Physics Computer science in Astrophysics?

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  37. P

    Durham vs Manchester in Astrophysics (Cosmology) - Postgraduate

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    Programs PhD in Astrophysics in Europe: Where to Study and Research Opportunities

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  44. Simfish

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  45. L

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  46. H

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  50. M

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