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  • Textbook
  • © 2013

An Introduction to the Evolution of Single and Binary Stars

  • Introduces the physics behind single and binary stellar evolution, assuming no prior knowledge of astronomy
  • Focuses on the evolution of stars to the end point of white dwarf, neutron star, and black hole binary systems
  • Fills the niche between more-and-less advanced books, currently available on the topic
  • Includes supplementary material: sn.pub/extras

Part of the book series: Undergraduate Lecture Notes in Physics (ULNP)

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Table of contents (15 chapters)

  1. Front Matter

    Pages i-xii
  2. Measuring Stars

    1. Front Matter

      Pages 1-1
    2. Classifying and Describing Stars

      • Matthew Benacquista
      Pages 3-12
    3. Introduction to Binary Systems

      • Matthew Benacquista
      Pages 13-28
    4. Measuring Other Stellar Properties

      • Matthew Benacquista
      Pages 29-43
  3. Equations and Processes

    1. Front Matter

      Pages 45-45
    2. Stellar Evolution Equations

      • Matthew Benacquista
      Pages 47-61
    3. Gas and Radiation Pressures

      • Matthew Benacquista
      Pages 63-75
    4. Radiative Transfer and Stellar Atmospheres

      • Matthew Benacquista
      Pages 77-90
    5. Nuclear Processes

      • Matthew Benacquista
      Pages 91-103
  4. Stellar Models

    1. Front Matter

      Pages 105-105
    2. Simple Stellar Models

      • Matthew Benacquista
      Pages 107-118
    3. Stability

      • Matthew Benacquista
      Pages 119-131
    4. Stellar Birth

      • Matthew Benacquista
      Pages 133-146
    5. Main Sequence Structure

      • Matthew Benacquista
      Pages 147-162
    6. Compact Remnants

      • Matthew Benacquista
      Pages 163-178
  5. Dynamical Systems

    1. Front Matter

      Pages 179-179
    2. Binary Evolution

      • Matthew Benacquista
      Pages 181-195
    3. Star Cluster Dynamics

      • Matthew Benacquista
      Pages 197-211
    4. Dynamical Evolution of Binaries

      • Matthew Benacquista
      Pages 213-221

About this book

An Introduction to the Evolution of Single and Binary Stars provides physicists with an understanding of binary and single star evolution, beginning with a background and introduction of basic astronomical concepts. Although a general treatment of stellar structure and evolution is included, the text stresses the physical processes that lead to stellar mass compact object binaries that may be sources of observable gravitational radiation.

Basic concepts of astronomy, stellar structure and atmospheres, single star evolution, binary systems and mass transfer, compact objects, and dynamical systems are covered in the text. Readers will understand the astrophysics behind the populations of compact object binary systems and have sufficient background to delve deeper into specific areas of interest. In addition, derivations of important concepts and worked examples are included. No previous knowledge of astronomy is assumed, although a familiarity with undergraduate quantum mechanics, classical mechanics, and thermodynamics is beneficial.

Authors and Affiliations

  • Texas, Department of Physics and Astronomy, University of Texas at Brownsville, Brownsville, USA

    Matthew Benacquista

About the author

Matthew Benacquista, University of Texas at Brownsville, Brownsville, USA, benacquista@phys.utb.edu

Bibliographic Information

Buy it now

Buying options

eBook USD 44.99
Price excludes VAT (USA)
  • Available as PDF
  • Read on any device
  • Instant download
  • Own it forever
Softcover Book USD 59.99
Price excludes VAT (USA)
  • Compact, lightweight edition
  • Dispatched in 3 to 5 business days
  • Free shipping worldwide - see info

Tax calculation will be finalised at checkout

Other ways to access