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.

Autorentext

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

Inhalt

Classifying and Describing Stars.- Introduction to Binary Systems.- Measuring Other Stellar Properties.- Stellar Evolution Equations.- Gas and Radiation Pressures.- Radiative Transfer and Stellar Atmospheres.- Nuclear Processes.- Simple Stellar Models.- Stability.- Stellar Birth.- Main Sequence Structure.- Compact Remnants.- Binary Evolution.- Star Cluster Dynamics.- Dynamical Evolution of Binaries.- Useful Constants.- Atomic Properties of Selected Elements.- Closest and Brightest Stars.- Solutions.- Index.