Large scale structure and galaxy formation  

How galaxies and the large-scale structures in which they are embedded form is a fundamental question in extra-galactic astronomy. It is an area that has seen tremendous progress, but is still constantly challenged by ever-improving observational data. This course introduces you to this fascinating subject and the underlying physics, starting from how small density perturbations grow into dark matter haloes, to how baryons cool and form the galaxy population we observe today. It will cover the main theoretical treatment of perturbations, as well as how to interpret the main observational probes of large-scale structure. Physical concepts are derived from basic principles where possible. The emphasis is on intuitive rather than mathematically rigorous derivations. Topics that will be covered include: Linear growth of density perturbations Free streaming Transfer functions and the matter power spectrum Non-linear spherical collapse Jeans smoothing Radiation drag Statistical cosmological principle Clustering and biasing Halo mass functions and Press-Schechter theory Scaling laws and virial relations Cosmic web Redshift-space distortions Radiative cooling and its importance Angular momentum and its influence Reionization The Gunn-Peterson effect The thermal history of the intergalactic medium Feedback processes Halo models, semi-empirical models, and simulations Outcome: Upon completion of this course you will be able to explain how (we think that) large-scale structures and galaxies form and evolve and you will be able to carry out calculations of the formation of structures in the universe. Upon completion of the course you will be able to: Compute the growth of density fluctuations Compute the shape of the matter power spectrum Explain the morphology of the cosmic web Explain redshift-space distortions Explain galaxy biasing and clustering Compute halo mass functions using Press-Schechter theory Compute galaxy and halo scaling relations Understand radiative cooling processes Estimate the effect of radiative cooling on galaxy formation Estimate the effect of angular momentum on galaxy formation Model the process of reionization Compute the thermal history of the intergalactic medium Compute Gunn-Peterson absorption Understand the basics of feedback processes in galaxy formation Understand the basics of halo models, semi-empirical models and simulations of galaxy formation
Presential
English
Large scale structure and galaxy formation
English

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