Astrophysics and geophysics

Duration

30h Th, 30h Pr

Number of credits

Lecturer

Marc-Antoine Dupret

Language(s) of instruction

French language

Organisation and examination

Teaching in the first semester, review in January

Schedule

Schedule online

Units courses prerequisite and corequisite

Prerequisite or corequisite units are presented within each program

Learning unit contents

Astrophysics: The main physical processes in the description of stars and their evolution are put in evidence. The study of the extra-galactic universe is considered with main attention to the expansion of the universe and the Hubble law.
Geophysics: We present the internal structure of the Earth and the way to probe it with seismic waves. The physical and chemical properties of the atmosphere are discussed and we establish the energetic balance of the earth. Recent problems: greenhouse effect, stratospheric ozone are detailled.
Astronomy: The way to locate stars in the celestial sphere is detailed, as well as their apparent motions (diurnal, annual, precession). A particular attention is given to the seasons phenomenon. Finally, the important problem of the distance determination in astronomy is considered.

Learning outcomes of the learning unit

The aim of the part "Astrophysics" is to introduce students to the main components of our universe: stars, galaxies, large scale universe. Of particular importance is the understanding of the underlying fundamental physics processes.

The aim of the part "Géophysics" is on the one hand to give an overview of the internal structure of our Earth. On the other hand, a particular attention is given to the physical and chemical description of the atmosphere. Opening the gate to a precise understanding of important subjects such as the greenhouse effect and the question of the stratospheric ozone is of particular importance.

Finally, the aim of the part "Astronomy" is to give students basic elements for a better knowledge of the apparent univers and to understand the link between observations and the geometrical characteristics of our univers.

Prerequisite knowledge and skills

Basic knowledges in physics, thermodynamics and mechanics are essential. Basic mathematical knowledges, particularly in trigonometry are also required.
The following courses are prerequired:
- Physique moderne, L. Dreesen (bac2 physics)
- Thermodynamique, N. Vandewalle (bac2 physics)

Planned learning activities and teaching methods

Exercices are inserted in the lectures.

Mode of delivery (face-to-face ; distance-learning)

The course is given the first semester (5h / week).

Recommended or required readings

Complete notes, as well as the powerpoint presentations are available, see:
http://www.astro.ulg.ac.be/~dupret

Assessment methods and criteria

An oral (theory) and written (exercises) exam is organised during the january session.

Work placement(s)

Organizational remarks

Contacts

Marc-Antoine Dupret
email: MA.Dupret@ulg.ac.be
address: Institut d'Astrophysique et Géophysique, bât. B5c, +1
Tél: 04 366 97 32

Items online