The module addresses how galaxies form, are classified and how they cluster in space. The Milky Way Galaxy will be discussed in detail. A distinction will be drawn between Normal and Active galaxies. The powering of Active galaxies by supermassive black holes will be discussed in the context of the luminosities of galaxies. Galactic rotation curves will be discussed from the perspective of the estimation of galaxy masses. Such measurements suggest the underlying presence of dark matter which is not directly detectable.A description of modern cosmology will be given, based on experimental data from contemporary observations. Evidence for the accelerated expansion of the universe will be presented which points to the presence of a dark energy component of the cosmos that contributes a weak repulsive force throughout spacetime, underpinning the accelerated expansion.Additionally the interstellar medium will be introduced in particular with respect to describing the structure, dynamics and evolution of galaxies.
Learning Outcomes:
On completion of this module students should be able to describe:(1) The Milky Way Galaxy.(2) Galaxy evolution and the classification of galaxies.(3) The interstellar medium(4) Cosmological Models.
