2023-2024 / SPAT0021-1

Introduction to astroparticles

Duration

30h Th

Number of credits

 Master in space sciences (120 ECTS)3 crédits 

Lecturer

Jean-René Cudell

Language(s) of instruction

English language

Organisation and examination

Teaching in the second semester

Schedule

Schedule online

Units courses prerequisite and corequisite

Prerequisite or corequisite units are presented within each program

Learning unit contents

This course explains the various factes of particle physics, and their use for astrophysics.
Contents
1) Introduction: particles and forces already known
I Detectors and Accelerators 2) Particle Detectors on Earth and space 3) Cosmic and terrestrial accelerators
II The Standard model of particle Physics 4) Elements of the theory of continuous groups 5) Hadrons and the quark model 6) Gauge symmetries 7) Quantum chromodynamics 8) Electroweak interactions and neutrino cross sections 9-10) Neutrino oscillations and the solar cycles  11) CP violation and flavour mixing 12) Remarks on gravitation
III The new astronomy 13-14) High-energy cosmic rays 15-16) Neutrino astronomy  17-20) Gravitational-wave astronomy

Learning outcomes of the learning unit

At the end of the course, students will be able to: 1) to follow recent developments in particle physics; 2) to understand the most recent results concerning black holes and binary neutron stars; and 3) to understand the bases of present fundamental theories.

Prerequisite knowledge and skills

Basic knowledge of quantum mechanics, astrophysics, and nuclear physics.

Planned learning activities and teaching methods

This course is based on lectures, corresponding to the table of contents. Each session will be preceded by a discussion and/or a Q & A session. Students are also invited to consult and use the many links available on the course web pages.

Mode of delivery (face to face, distance learning, hybrid learning)

The slides of the course, as well as many additional references, are available on the course web pages.

Recommended or required readings

Reference textbook: "Particle Astrophysics", D. Perkins, Oxford University Press, 2004. There are many copies available in the Departement's libraries.
  

Exam(s) in session

Any session

- In-person

oral exam


Additional information:

Oral exam, two questions, 2 hours. Questions are available on the course web pages and may be modified during the year. 

Work placement(s)

Organisational remarks and main changes to the course

The course will be organized in 20 one-and-a-half hour sessions.

Contacts

Jean-René Cudell
Institute of physics 19A Allée du 6 août Bldg B5a (4th floor, room 4/44) University of Liège Tel.: 04/3663654
E-mail: jr.cudell@ulg.ac.be
Web pages: http://www.theo.phys.ulg.ac.be

Association of one or more MOOCs