An Introduction to the Sun and Stars

by Simon F. Green (Editor), Mark H. Jones (Editor)

Compiled by a team of experts, this textbook introduces the properties and evolution of the most immediately visible objects in the Universe - stars. Designed for elementary university courses in astronomy and astrophysics, it starts with a detailed discussion of our nearest star, the Sun, and describes how solar physicists have come to understand its internal workings. It then considers how we study the basic physical properties and life-cycles of more distant stars, culminating with a discussion of more 'exotic' objects, such as neutron stars and black holes. This second edition has a greater emphasis on the physical and spectral properties of stars, introducing stellar atmospheres, spectral line formation and the role of binary stars in the formation of compact objects. Avoiding complex mathematics, and generously illustrated in colour throughout, this accessible text is ideal for self-study and will appeal to both amateur astronomers and undergraduate students.

Genres: Science, Physics, Astronomy, Nonfiction, Education

380 pages, Paperback

First published February 26, 2004

Reviews

[Nguyen Thinh · Rating 5 out of 5]

Finally, I finished it!! This book is actually my textbook for my astronomy class. Although I was not required to read all the book, I still want to finish all of its contents and read it wholly from the beginning to the end. And it is so worth doing that. The book has wonderful figures, graphs, diagrams, appendixes to illustrate the knowledge (and you cannot find some of them on the Internet). It has mathematic equations besides pure facts, and it gives you lots of definition regarding the field of Sun and stars. The book is designed not too focused on hard physics and mathematics but provides the readers with concepts and illustration of processes. There are many questions the book raises to the readers, which makes me curious and excited to study more. To sum up, the book does a great job as an “introduction” title.

[Tim Horwood · Rating 4 out of 5]

A fine textbook with clear explanations of the sun and stars. Well layout with diagrams and beautiful pictures. The science , maths and formulae are logically and clearly explained.