Fluid Dynamics for Astrophysics

Fluid Dynamics for Astrophysics

COURSE OUTLINE: This course provides a broad overview of fluid phenomena in Astrophysics. The first few weeks cover the basics of fluid dynamics, with an emphasis on compressible phenomena. These basic concepts will be applied in understanding astrophysical phenomena ranging from the solar wind to black hole accretion disks. Magnetic fields are often important in astrophysical situations - we therefore treat the basics of magnetohydrodynamics and use it to understand astrophysical dynamos and jets. Students of this course will be equipped with the basics needed for understanding the research literature in several areas in astrophysics.