An Introduction to the Theory of Stellar Structure and Evolution

Using fundamental physics, the theory of stellar structure and evolution is able to predict how stars are born, how their complex internal structure changes, what nuclear fuel they burn, and what their ultimate fate is - a fading whitedwarf, or a cataclysmic explosion as a supernova, leaving behind a collapsed neutron star or black hole. This lucid textbook provides students with a clear and pedagogical introduction to the theory of stellar structure and evolution. It requires only basic physics and mathematics learnt in first- and second-year undergraduate studies, and assumes no prior knowledge of astronomy. The unique feature of this book is the emphasis throughout on the basic physical principles governing stellar evolution. Exercises and their full solutions are included to help students test their understanding. This textbook provides a stimulating introduction for undergraduates in astronomy, physics, planetary science and applied mathematics taking a course on the physics of stars.

Table of Contents:
Preface; 1. Observational background and basic assumptions; 2. The equations of stellar evolution; 3. Elementary physics of gas and radiation in stellar interiors; 4. Nuclear processes that take place in stars; 5. Equilibrium stellar configurations - simple models; 6. The stability of stars; 7. The evolution of stars - a schematic picture; 8. The evolution of stars - a detailed picture; 9. Exotic stars: Supernovae, Pulsars, Black Holes; 10. The stellar life-cycle; Appendix I. The equation of radiative transfer; Appendix II. Solutions to all the exercises; Appendix III. Physical and astronomical constants; Bibliography.

Review :
'The unique feature of this book is the emphasis it places, throughout, on the basic physical principles governing stellar evolution. The processes are always explained in the simplest terms, while maintaining full mathematical rigor ... This textbook provides a stimulating introduction for undergraduates in astronomy, physics, planetary science, and applied mathematics who are taking a course on the physics of stars. Because this book requires only basic undergraduate physics and mathematics and no prior knowledge of astronomy it may be written by advanced amateurs as well.' Orion (Societe Astronomique de Suisse) 'Here we have a first-class textbook that spells out in a clear and methodical way the principles that underlie the life cycles of starts and the physics of their interiors. ... The host of student exercises in this book, plus the useful worked answers, ensure that any dedicated physics or mathematics undergraduate can, with some effort, understand what is going on.' New Scientist 'To my mind, this is the first book to be both a candidate for the title of classic and at the same time suitable for undergraduates ... The approach is very different from that of most textbooks on stars ... Throughout the book, the emphasis is on understanding physical principles, and there are well-designed exercises scattered through the text, relating to material that has just been covered; full solutions are clearly set out in an appendix ... This ... is a book that I can strongly recommend as a suitable textbook to anyone teaching a course in stellar structure, at advanced undergraduate or beginning graduate level ... Any undergraduate who masters this book will not only be well prepared to undertake graduate work in the area but will also understand his/her other physics courses better. An excellent book, which certainly deserves to become a classic.' Robert Connon Smith, The Observatory