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astrophysics
(redirected from astrophysicist)

   Also found in: Dictionary/thesaurus, Wikipedia, Hutchinson 0.09 sec.
astrophysics, application of the theories and methods of physics to the study of stellar structure stellar structure, physical properties of a star and the processes taking place within it. Except for that of the sun, astronomers must draw their conclusions regarding stellar structure on the basis of light and other radiation from stars that are light-years away;
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, stellar evolution stellar evolution, life history of a star , beginning with its condensation out of the interstellar gas (see interstellar matter ) and ending, sometimes catastrophically, when the star has exhausted its nuclear fuel or can no longer adjust itself to a stable
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, the origin of the solar system solar system, the sun and the surrounding planets, natural satellites , dwarf planets, asteroids, meteoroids, and comets that are bound by its gravity. The sun is by far the most massive part of the solar system, containing almost 99.9% of the system's total mass.
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, and related problems of cosmology cosmology, area of science that aims at a comprehensive theory of the structure and evolution of the entire physical universe .

Modern Cosmological Theories


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. The distinction between astrophysics and modern astronomy astronomy, branch of science that studies the motions and natures of celestial bodies, such as planets , stars , and galaxies ; more generally, the study of matter and energy in the universe at large.
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 is disappearing in scientific usage.

astrophysics

Branch of astronomy concerned mainly with the properties and structures of cosmic objects, including the universe as a whole. Starting in the 19th century, spectroscopy and photography were applied to astronomical research, making it possible to study the brightness, temperature, and chemical composition of cosmic objects. It was soon realized that the properties of these bodies could be fully understood only in terms of the physics of their atmospheres and interiors. X-ray astronomy, gamma-ray astronomy, infrared astronomy, ultraviolet astronomy, and radio and radar astronomy are all basically concerned with extending electromagnetic coverage beyond the visible spectrum to constrain the physical characteristics of astronomical objects.


astrophysics
the branch of physics concerned with the physical and chemical properties, origin, and evolution of the celestial bodies


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The search for these two elements is the fundamental task facing astrophysicists today, writes Hooper, a theoretical astrophysicist.
Neil Tyson is an astrophysicist and director of New York City's Hayden Planetarium.
Readers will fall into the plot as main character Professor Percival Marlowe, an incredibly intellectual astrophysicist is nearing death without having the closure of finishing his greatest discovery.
 
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