Advanced Astrophysics (Cambridge Planetary Science)

Astronomy describes the mechanics of the universe in the more basic language of physics, otherwise known as "astrophysics". Knowledge of black holes, quasars and extrasolar planets requires understanding of the physics underlying astrophysics. This book clarifies the fundamental principles of the field as well as the important astronomical phenomena it describes. Readers will gain a greater appreciation of the connection between physics and astronomy.

Astronomy describes the workings of the universe using the more basic language of physics--hence the science of 'astrophysics'. A proper understanding of phenomena like black holes, quasars and extrasolar planets requires that we understand the physics underlying all of astrophysics. This book develops these basics to provide a fuller, richer understanding of the science of astrophysics and the important astronomical phenomena it describes. The user of this book will gain a greater appreciation of the connection between physics and astronomy and a better understanding of both.