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Theoretical Astrophysics and Cosmology
Last Updated: 2026-02-05 15:29:40
Abstract
This course covers advanced theoretical topics in astrophysics and cosmology. Topics: history of the universe, thermodynamics in expanding universe, baryogenesis and nuclesynthesis, inflation, relativistic perturbation theory, cosmic microwave background, large scale structure, dark matter and dark energy, quantization of gravity, relativistic astrophysics, black holes, modifications of gravity
Content
Week 1: overview of homogeneous cosmology Week 2: equlibrium and non-equilibrium thermodynamics Week 3: thermal history of the universe Week 4: very early universe Week 5: creation of matter: baryogenesis Week 6: creation of nuclei: nucleosynthesis Week 7: inflation: homogeneous limit Week 8: relativistic perturbation theory Week 9: inflation and initial perturbations in the universe Week 10: cosmic microwave background anisotropies Week 11: structure formation Week 12: dark matter and dark energy Week 13: quantization of gravity, Hawking radiation Week 14: relativistic astrophysics Week 15: alternative theories of gravity
Resources
Literature
V. Mukhanov: Physical Foundations of Cosmology E. W. Kolb and M. S. Turner: The Early Universe S. Carroll: An introduction to General Relativity Spacetime and Geometry
General Information
- Language
- English
- Levels
- BSC , MSC
- Frequency
- Yearly recurring
Examination
- Type
- session examination
- Mode
- oral 45 minutes
Course Components
| Type | Title | Time & Place | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| lecture |
Theoretical Astrophysics and Cosmology
**Kurs an der Uni Zürich**
|
|
3 h weekly |
| exercise |
Theoretical Astrophysics and Cosmology
**Kurs an der Uni Zürich**
|
|
2 h weekly |