Description
Book SynopsisBridging the gap between physics and astronomy, this is the first integrated graduate-level textbook on atomic astrophysics. It covers the basics of atomic physics and astrophysics, and state-of-the-art research applications, methods and tools. A website hosted by the authors, containing updates, corrections, exercises and solutions, is available at www.cambridge.org/9780521825368.
Trade Review'This is a very important book that bridges the gap between modern atomic physics and modern astrophysics. It covers all the essential subjects, and is very well written. I think it will be of considerable value to research workers in both broad areas, to professors who wish to teach about the subjects, and to students. I expect that it will be very well received by both communities. I'm happy that Cambridge [University Press] will add this book to its distinguished series of books in physics and astrophysics.' Dimitri Mihalas, G. C. McVittie Professor Emeritus, University of Illinois and Laboratory Fellow, Los Alamos National Laboratory
'Pradhan and Nahar have written the most coherent discussion of atomic processes that produce radiation in astrophysical thermal environments that I have read to date. A great deal of ground is covered in the book and one of its strengths is that it provides the quantum mechanical basis for the processes while also giving the practical applications that are needed to interpret spectral features in astronomical objects. I highly recommend the book to spectroscopists as a fundamental resource.' Dr Robert Williams, Space Telescope Science Institute and President of the IAU
'The discipline of atomic physics lies at the heart of astrophysics … Atomic Astrophysics and Spectroscopy by two noted practitioners is an important step forward.' Alexander Dalgarno, Phillips Professor of Astronomy, Harvard University
'… one I shall consult frequently when next I face a class in spectroscopic astrophysics.' The Observatory
Table of Contents1. Introduction; 2. Atomic structure; 3. Atomic processes; 4. Radiative transitions; 5. Electron-ion collisions; 6. Photoionization; 7. Electron-ion recombination; 8. Multi-wavelength emission lines; 9. Absorption lines and radiative transfer; 10. Stellar properties and spectra; 11. Stellar opacity and radiative forces; 12. Gaseous nebulae and HII regions; 13. Active galactic nuclei and quasars; 14. Cosmology; Appendices; References; Index.
