Radiative Processes in Astrophysics

by George B. Rybicki, Alan P. Lightman

Radiative Processes in Astrophysics: This clear, straightforward, and fundamental introduction is designed to present-from a physicist's point of view-radiation processes and their applications to astrophysical phenomena and space science. It covers such topics as radiative transfer theory, relativistic covariance and kinematics, bremsstrahlung radiation, synchrotron radiation, Compton scattering, some plasma effects, and radiative transitions in atoms. Discussion begins with first principles, physically motivating and deriving all results rather than merely presenting finished formulae. However, a reasonably good physics background (introductory quantum mechanics, intermediate electromagnetic theory, special relativity, and some statistical mechanics) is required. Much of this prerequisite material is provided by brief reviews, making the book a self-contained reference for workers in the field as well as the ideal text for senior or first-year graduate students of astronomy, astrophysics, and related physics courses. Radiative Processes in Astrophysics also contains about 75 problems, with solutions, illustrating applications of the material and methods for calculating results. This important and integral section emphasizes physical intuition by presenting important results that are used throughout the main text; it is here that most of the practical astrophysical applications become apparent.

Genres: Science, Reference, Textbooks, Astronomy, Nonfiction, Physics

400 pages, Kindle Edition

First published March 1, 1985

Reviews

[Julian · Rating 5 out of 5]

Although it's fair to say the treatment by Rybicki and Lightman has gotten a bit long in the tooth at the (space)time of writing this review,... However, given that it's one of very few if not the sole comprehensive treatment of the topic of radiative transfer and radiative processes in (astro)physics to date still (used in research and universities in Americas, Europe, Asia, and pretty much everywhere else where people study astronomy) and the subject being the cornerstone the very field since the advent of the quantitative astrosciences, it speak for itself (the quality and importance of this publication).

Naturally, it's a tedious read at parts but enlightening in most of them nonetheless. I would love to see a second edition, keeping the contentual scope and outline in large parts untouched, but revamping the didactical approach of how one of the arguably most mathematics- and physics-heavy subjects in astrophysics can be taught effectively. What's more, perhaps a energetic and ambitious new co-author (see my P.S.) can be won to lead the project into the new century -- it would be a real bummer if the writings continue to age, forfeiting the opportunity to condition *the* authoritative text of it's subject for the 21st century.

I did not read the entire book from cover to back, but roughly 80-ish % as I had the pleasure and opportunity to work as teaching assistant for the respective core course 'Radiative Processes in Astrophysics' at a university in the Netherlands, which was in essence teaching the contents of this book.

P.S. Yes, I am ogling at you, 'Theory of Stellar Atmospheres: An Introduction to Astrophysical Non-Equilibrium Quantitative Spectroscopic Analysis' by Ivan Hubeny (new co-author of 2nd edition) and Dimitri M. Mihalas (sole author of 1st edition).

[Ryan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great smelling book!

[Tim Robishaw]

Hard cover, dark blue.

[Aleksandra Hamanowicz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ok, not read entirely