Specific Competition
CE1 - Understand the basic conceptual schemes of Astrophysics
CE6 - Understand the structure of matter being able to solve problems related to the interaction between matter and radiation in different energy ranges
CE7 - Know how to find solutions to specific astrophysical problems by themselves using specific bibliography with minimal supervision. Know how to function independently in a novel research project
CE9 - Understand the instrumentation used to observe the Universe in the different frequency ranges
CE10 - Use current scientific instrumentation (both Earth-based and Space-based) and learn about its innovative technologies.
General Competencies
CG1 - Know the advanced mathematical and numerical techniques that allow the application of Physics and Astrophysics to the solution of complex problems using simple models
CG2 - Understand the technologies associated with observation in Astrophysics and instrumentation design
CG4 - Evaluate the orders of magnitude and develop a clear perception of physically different situations that show analogies allowing the use, to new problems, of synergies and known solutions
Basic skills
CB6 - Possess and understand knowledge that provides a basis or opportunity to be original in the development and/or application of ideas, often in a research context
CB7 - That students know how to apply the knowledge acquired and their ability to solve problems in new or little-known environments within broader contexts
CB8 - That students are able to integrate knowledge and face the complexity of formulating judgments based on information that, being incomplete or limited, includes reflections on the social and ethical responsibilities linked to the application of their knowledge and judgments
CB10 - That students possess the learning skills that allow them to continue studying in a way that will be largely self-directed or autonomous
Exclusive to the Theory and Computing Specialty
CX3 - Understand the origin of polarized radiation and the methods to obtain information about magnetic fields in the Cosmos
6. Subject contents
Theoretical and practical contents of the subject
- Professor: Dr. José Alberto Rubiño Martín
- Topics:
1. INTRODUCTION. Observation of polarized light in astrophysics. Examples: Sun, stars, Milky Way, other galaxies, cosmic microwave background. Review of Maxwell's equations. Description of polarized light. Stokes parameters.
2. SPECTROPOLARIMETERS: Polarimeter prototype. Retarders and polarizers. Jones matrices. Mueller matrices. Examples of devices in optical and radio. Description of systematic errors in real devices.
3. POLARIZATION IN THE CONTINUOUS: Fresnel equations: Reflection and refraction. Expedited charges. Bremsstrahlung. Polarization by scattering Rayleigh, Thomson. Cyclotron and synchrotron radiation. Propagation effects (Faraday rotation). Other effects of astrophysical interest: examples and applications.
- Lecturer: Dr. Tanausú del Pino Alemán
- Lessons:
4. POLARIZATION IN ATOMIC LINES: Quantum model of an atomic transition. Selection rules. Zeeman Broadcast. Strong field and weak field limits. Atomic polarization. Scattering on atomic lines. Statistical equilibrium equations. Hanle effect. Microturbulent case. Applications to solar and stellar magnetism.
5. TRANSPORT OF POLARIZED LIGHT IN STELLAR ATMOSPHERES: Structure of the radiative transport equation for polarized light. Coupling with statistical equilibrium equations. Particular cases. Inference of the thermodynamic and magnetic properties of a stellar atmosphere.
