Astronomical Spectroscopy

The third edition of Astronomical Spectroscopy examines the physics necessary to understand and interpret astronomical spectra. It offers a step-by-step guide to the atomic and molecular physics involved in providing astronomical spectra starting from the relatively simple hydrogen atom and working its way to the spectroscopy of small molecules.

Based on UCL course material, this book uses actual astronomical spectra to illustrate the theoretical aspects of the book to give the reader a feel for such spectra as well as an awareness of what information can be retrieved from them. It also provides comprehensive exercises, with answers given, to aid understanding.
Contents: Why Record Spectra of Astronomical Objects?The Nature of SpectraAtomic HydrogenComplex AtomsHelium SpectraAlkali AtomsSpectra of NebulaeSpectra in Magnetic FieldsX-Ray SpectraLine ProfilesMolecular StructureRotational SpectraVibration-Rotation SpectraElectronic Spectra of Diatomic MoleculesSolutions to Model ProblemsFurther Reading and BibliographyIndex
Readership: Undergraduates and postgraduates studying astronomical spectroscopy.Spectroscopy;Emission;Absorption;Quantum Mechanics;Astrophysics;Observation;Light;Starlight0Key Features:Comprehensive introduction of the physics that underpins astronomical spectroscopyTaught using actual astronomical spectra which are explained and interprettedComprehensive exercise (with answers at back) to aid understanding