Registry

Module Specifications

Archived Version 2019 - 2020

Module Title
Module Code
School
Online Module Resources
NFQ level	9	Credit Rating	7.5
Pre-requisite	None
Co-requisite	None
Compatibles	None
Incompatibles	None

Description

This module focuses on a general understanding of the properties of galaxies and the intergalactic medium, along with the different observational techniques used to study them.

Learning Outcomes

1. Write a basic observing proposal related to galaxies or exoplanets, including all the scientific and technical aspects
2. Interpret astronomical basic data, extract relevant parameters
3. Asses the most appropriate observational techniques for variety of systems.
4. Explain galactic rotation and discuss the impact of dark-matter on rotation curves.
5. Describe the different building blocks of galaxies
6. Summarise the formation processes of galaxies, and their impact on observables.
7. Understand the role of magnetic fields in different cosmic environments
8. Discuss the nature of the intergalactic medium on different cosmic scales and times

*Type*	*Hours*	*Description*
Workload	Full-time hours per semester
Lecture	36	No Description
Workshop	12	Practical application of analysing observational data
Independent Study	140	No Description
Total Workload: 188

All module information is indicative and subject to change. For further information,students are advised to refer to the University's Marks and Standards and Programme Specific Regulations at: http://www.dcu.ie/registry/examinations/index.shtml

Indicative Content and Learning Activities

Galaxies
Structure of galaxies, galactic rotation curves, dark matter, formation of galaxies

Observational techniques
Telescope optics, Photometry, spectroscopy, equivalent widths, signal-to-noise calculations, data reduction processes, adaptive optics, comparing data to models

The intergalactic medium
The intracluster medium, filaments of the large scale structure, the “missing baryon” problem.

Cosmic magnetic fields
Magnetic fields in galaxies and the intergalactic medium, origin of magnetic fields, primordial magnetic fields, amplification of seed magnetic fields.

Assessment Breakdown
Continuous Assessment	%	Examination Weight	%

Type	Description	% of total	Assessment Date
Course Work Breakdown

Reassessment Requirement
Resit arrangements are explained by the following categories; 1 = A resit is available for all components of the module 2 = No resit is available for 100% continuous assessment module 3 = No resit is available for the continuous assessment component
Unavailable

Indicative Reading List

Binney & Tremaine: 0, Galactic Dynamics,
Mo, van den Bosch & White: 0, Galaxy Formation and Evolution,
P. Schneider: 0, Extragalactic Astronomy & Cosmology,
M. Longair: 0, Galaxy Formation,
Klein & Fletcher: 0, Galactic and Intergalactic Magnetic Fields,

Other Resources

None

Programme or List of Programmes

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