An Introduction to the Sun and Stars

Compiled by experts, this generously illustrated textbook introduces the properties and evolution of stars for undergraduates and amateurs.

Simon F. Green (Edited by), Mark H. Jones (Edited by)

9781107492639, Cambridge University Press

Paperback / softback, published 19 February 2015

380 pages, 25 b/w illus. 225 colour illus. 16 tables 120 exercises
26.3 x 21.1 x 1.9 cm, 1.09 kg

'Very little prior knowledge is assumed, with necessary physics being introduced in 'boxes' as required, and no calculus; however, the authors integrate the mathematics that they do use into the main text, leaving the reader in no doubt that the maths is essential to the subject – a refreshing change from many American freshman texts. … lavishly illustrated in colour … a book that students will both enjoy and learn from!' Susan Cartwright, The Observatory

Compiled by a team of experts, this textbook introduces the properties and evolution of the most immediately visible objects in the Universe – stars. Designed for elementary university courses in astronomy and astrophysics, it starts with a detailed discussion of our nearest star, the Sun, and describes how solar physicists have come to understand its internal workings. It then considers how we study the basic physical properties and life-cycles of more distant stars, culminating with a discussion of more 'exotic' objects, such as neutron stars and black holes. This second edition has a greater emphasis on the physical and spectral properties of stars, introducing stellar atmospheres, spectral line formation and the role of binary stars in the formation of compact objects. Avoiding complex mathematics, and generously illustrated in colour throughout, this accessible text is ideal for self-study and will appeal to both amateur astronomers and undergraduate students.

Introduction
1. Seeing the Sun
2. The working Sun
3. Measuring stars
4. Comparing stars
5. The formation of stars
6. The main sequence life of stars
7. The life of stars beyond the main sequence
8. The death of stars
9. The remnants of stars
Conclusion
Answers and comments
Appendices
Glossary
Further reading
Acknowledgements
Figure references
Index.

Subject Areas: Atmospheric physics [PHVJ], Astrophysics [PHVB], Plasma physics [PHFP], Physics [PH], Solar system: the Sun & planets [PGS], Mathematics & science [P]