Physics, Formation and Evolution of Rotating Stars (Astronomy and Astrophysics Library) - Hardcover

Maeder, Andre

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 354076948X ISBN 13: 9783540769484

Publisher: Springer, 2009

Synopsis

Rotation is ubiquitous at each step of stellar evolution, from star formation to the final stages, and it affects the course of evolution, the timescales and nucleosynthesis. Stellar rotation is also an essential prerequisite for the occurrence of Gamma-Ray Bursts.

In this book the author thoroughly examines the basic mechanical and thermal effects of rotation, their influence on mass loss by stellar winds, the effects of differential rotation and its associated instabilities, the relation with magnetic fields and the evolution of the internal and surface rotation. Further, he discusses the numerous observational signatures of rotational effects obtained from spectroscopy and interferometric observations, as well as from chemical abundance determinations, helioseismology and asteroseismology, etc.

On an introductory level, this book presents in a didactical way the basic concepts of stellar structure and evolution in "track 1" chapters. The other more specialized chapters form an advanced course on the graduate level and will further serve as a valuable reference work for professional astrophysicists.

About this title

Review

From the reviews:

"Stellar phenomena are understood to varying degrees but remain challenging problems. ... André Maeder, an astrophysicist at the Observatory of Geneva, has taken up that challenge. In Physics, Formation and Evolution of Rotating Stars, he not only treats stellar rotation, but weaves it into the broader tapestry of stellar structure. ... a comprehensive work for graduate students and researchers. ... With its wealth of information, Maeder’s book will be useful for those ... interested in the internal dynamics of stars." (Steven Stahler, Physics Today, September, 2009)

“Maeder’s book develops the background theory of stellar evolution from the basics, allowing parts of the book to be accessible to (very) advanced undergraduates and making it more suitable as an introduction to the subject for a graduate student. ... is probably best thought of as a reference text. ... persevering reader will find much of interest, explained in a generally clear style. I shall certainly be glad to have this book on my shelf.” (Robert C. Smith, Contemporary Physics, Vol. 52 (1), 2011)

Edition details

• Publisher: Springer
• Publication date: 2009
• ISBN 10: 354076948X
• ISBN 13: 9783540769484
• Binding: Hardcover
• Language: English
• Number of pages: 853