ASTR 201 - Introduction to Astrophysics: How to build the elements

FC NSMA QFR

4 credits
Out of the entire periodic table, only hydrogen, helium, and a tiny bit of lithium have been present for the entire history of the Universe. All the other, more complex, elements, including the ones required for life, were created through astrophysical processes over the course of cosmic time. We will cover what processes created these elements, why the elemental content of distant objects in space is a useful thing to know, and what we have learned from studying it in different astrophysical objects. Off-campus field trips required.

Prerequisites: PHYS 103, 110 or consent of the instructor