Astronomy with Radioactivities

This book introduces the reader to the field of nuclear astrophysics, i.e. the
acquisition and reading of measurements on unstable isotopes in different parts of
the universe. The authors explain the role of radioactivities in astrophysics, discuss specific sources of cosmic isotopes and in which special regions they can be observed. More specifically, the authors address stars of different types, stellar explosions which
terminate stellar evolutions, and other explosions triggered by mass transfers and instabilities
in binary stars. They also address nuclear reactions and transport processes
in interstellar space, in the contexts of cosmic rays and of chemical evolution. A
special chapter is dedicated to the solar system which even provides material
samples. The book also contains a description of key tools which astrophysicists employ in those
particular studies and a glossary of key terms in astronomy with radioactivities.