Theoretical astrophysics laboratory 3 0800-PA-THEOASTLA3

The computational projects will be realized with the aid of the magnetohydrodynamical code PIERNIK

Students perform and analyze a series of numerical experiments including: supernova explosions, accretion disks, astrophysical jets and selected hydrodynamical instabilities (gravitational instability, thermal instability, Kelvin-Helmholtz instability) of astrophysical relevance.

Total student workload

Contact hours with teacher: - participation in computer laboratory tutorials - 45 hrs Self-study hours: - preparation of written reports on the numerical experiments realized at computer laboratory - 45 hrs Altogether: 90 hrs (3 ECTS)

Learning outcomes - knowledge

Student: W1- knows advanced theoretical and computational methods of theoretical astrophysics. (K_W02) W2 – knows physical processes taking place in galaxies and interstellar medium, knows the structure, dynamics and evolution of galaxies. (K_W04) W3 – knows modern trends of theoretical studies in astrophysics. (K_W06)

Learning outcomes - skills

Student: U1: can apply the scientific method to problem-solving in theoretical astrophysics. (K_U01) U2: Has the skill of planning and conducting advanced numerical experiments as well as theoretical considerations in Astrophysics. (K_U02) U3: can modify, compile, execute and test the open-source simulation software designated for numerical simulations in theoretical astrophysics. (K_U04) U4: can conduct a critical analysis and interpret the results of numerical simulation experiments. (K_U03) U5: can present the results of numerical experiments in the written and oral form. (K_U09)

Learning outcomes - social competencies

Student K1: is aware of methodological and technological limitations of numerical simulation methods in astrophysics. (K_K01)

Teaching methods

Exploratory teaching methods - computer laboratory.

Observation/demonstration teaching methods

- simulation (simulation games)

Exploratory teaching methods

- laboratory

Online teaching methods

- games and simulations

Prerequisites

Basic knowledge of theory and numerical methods of fluid dynamics.

Course coordinators

Michał Hanasz

Assessment criteria

Assessment methods:
Students prepare written reports on the performed experiments in the form of short articles. The learning outcomes (W1-W3, U1-U5, K1) are verified by evaluation of the reports.

Evaluation of the reports includes the following aspects:
- the level of understanding of the investigated phenomena,
- completeness and logical consistency of the experiment analysis,
- activity, initiative and independent working on numerical experiments and on the reports.
Assessment criteria:
fail: < 50%
satisfactory: 50-59%
satisfactory plus: 60-69%
good: 70-79%
good plus: 80-89%
very good: 90-100%

Practical placement

„not applicable”

Additional information

Additional information (registration calendar, class conductors, localization and schedules of classes), might be available in the USOSweb system:

Description of 0800-PA-THEOASTLA3 in USOSweb