Teaching methods (Werkvormen)
- 10 hrs computer course
- 30 hrs lecture
- 30 hrs problem session
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Pre-requisites (Vereiste voorkennis)
Bachelor degree in (astro)physics with Stellar evolution ('sterevolutie').
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Objectives (Leerdoelen)
- The student will be have a working knowledge of the equation of state of compact objects
- The student will be able to explain the formation of compact binaries
- The student will master the physics of accretion and be able to relate this to observed phenomena.
- The student will understand how compact binaries can be observed at all electromagnetic wavelenghts and in gravitational waves
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Contents (Beschrijving)
Binary stellar systems containing at least one compact object (a white dwarf, neutron star or black hole) are ideal place to study physics under extreme conditions: strong gravity, high energy, supranuclear densities, strong radiation fields, 'naked' fusion. Compact binaries host most of the observed high energy physics phenomena as observed in the X-ray and gamma-ray sky: X-ray bursts, X-ray pulsars, novae, Supernovae Type Ia, radio and X-ray jets, accretion disks and perhaps even gamma-ray bursts. The course will give an overview of the formation of the compact binary. The (interior) physics of compact objects will be explained (supranuclear densities, degenerate matter, quark-gluon plasmas, superfluidity and superconductivity). In most systems accretion of matter is reponsible for the observed phenomena. The physics of accretion will be detailed and a relation will be made with the observed phenomena.
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Examination (Tentaminering)
Exercises and a presentation on a relevant topic in a concluding 'mini-symposium'. Computer programming exercise
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Literature (Literatuur)
Recommended: - Lewin & Van der Klis, Compact Stellar X-ray Sources
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Extra information (Bijzonderheden)
This course will be given even-biennial, in quarter 2 and 3!
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