Galaxy Formation and Evolution
Galaxies are the building blocks of the universe and their formation and evolution are part of its cosmological evolution. This course provides you with an introduction to the relevant theoretical background and observational results. You will encounter the most up-to-date results through reading a selection of current research papers.
The course will begin with an overview of the field of research in galaxy evolution, from the early universe until today. We will then go through the basics of the growth of density perturbations in an expanding universe, the role of dark matter versus baryonic matter and cooling. You will learn the processes behind the evolution of galaxies, such as stellar popula-tion and chemical evolution, feedback and hierarchical evolution. You will study the ex-pected properties of the first galaxies and the reionization of the universe. Results from numerical simulations on galaxy and structure formation will be used, and coupled to the evolution of the population of galaxies as a function of time.
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Course structure
The course is given at the advanced level, during the day time and at 50% study activity. It will be given in English.
Teaching format
Teaching will consist of a combination of lectures and literature seminars. During the (man-datory) seminars a selection of current research articles will be discussed. You will also be required to write a short essay on a specific topic (chosen in consultation with the teacher) which involves reading research articles on the chosen topic.
Assessment
The examination consists of three parts: written hand-in assignments, active participation in literature seminars, and by writing and presenting an essay on a specific topic.
During the course, there will also be a few quizzes on the course content, and successful performance will give bonus points in the examination.
Examiner
Göran Östlin
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Schedule
The schedule will be available no later than one month before the start of the course. We do not recommend print-outs as changes can occur. At the start of the course, your department will advise where you can find your schedule during the course. -
Course literature
Note that the course literature can be changed up to two months before the start of the course.
Cimatti, Fraternali, & Nipoti: “Introduction to Galaxy Formation and Evolution”, 2020, Cam-bridge.
Longair: “Galaxy Formation”, 2nd edition, 2008, Springer. -
Course reports
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Contact
The academic advisor and student office can be contacted via studieinfo@astro.su.se.