Structure and Evolution of Single Stars: An introduction is intended for upper-level undergraduates and beginning graduates with a background in physics. Following a brief overview of the background observational material, the basic equations describing the structure and evolution of single stars are derived. The relevant physical processes, which include the equation of state, opacity, nuclear reactions and neutrino losses are then reviewed. Subsequent chapters describe the evolution of low-mass stars from formation to the final white dwarf phase. The final chapter deals with the evolution of massive stars.

"And it was then that all these kinds of things thus established received their shapes from the Ordering One, through the action of Ideas of Numbers" (Plato: in Timaeus). Indeed, the Hamilton's 'Principle of Least Action' is a mathematical discrimination between inorganic and organic systems. The geometrical progression of organic life has the property of producing by simple addition, a succession of numbers or similar shapes making the homothetic (gnomonic) growth-work by 'imbibition' (from inside outwards). Whereas, inorganic matters (crystals, snowflakes, rocks) grow by 'agglutination' (from outside inwards) and final distribution of energy to cause no further motion. While in inorganic growth (hexagonal), the Principle of Least Actions tends to save energy, in organic or gnomonic growth (pentagonal) there is a tendency to save the substance. Involving the avid travelers "father jaguar and the cub," this tourbook of the "snow gallery" mathematically and geometrically analyzes the deposition, aggregation, capacitance, and velocity of the snowflake formation, vis a vis the hexagonal (honeycomb) tendency. When the tour is over, the cub classifies his most favorite snowflakes, giving them names.

Space and Space Travel is a comprehensive introductory overview of subject matter related to exploration of the solar system. After an initial discussion of energy, power, and the atom, the book explores the Sun and its impact on planets and the space environment, the conditions in space, the fundamentals of space travel, and planetary destinations. Specific topics include the solar interior and atmosphere, space plasma environments and weather, advanced propulsion, the inner solar system, and asteroids and beyond. Photographs, charts, and graphs support the text and enhance learning. Space and Space Travel is broadly based, and can be used in classes that discuss planetary science, space science, space technology, and human space flight. It is suitable for junior and senior level high school courses, as well as survey courses at the university level. The book is also an excellent jumping off point for technical classes that explore a specific topic in detail, but require general background knowledge.

In 2005, Palla & Baraffe proposed that brown dwarfs and very low mass stars (

What's in the dark? Countless generations have gazed up at the night sky and asked this question--the same question that cosmologists ask themselves as they study the universe.
The answer turns out to be surprising and rich. The space between stars is filled with an exotic substance called "dark matter" that exerts gravity but does not emit, absorb, or reflect light. The space between galaxies is rife with "dark energy" that creates a sort of cosmic antigravity causing the expansion of the universe to accelerate. Together, dark matter and dark energy account for 95 percent of the content of the universe. News reporters and science journalists routinely talk about these findings using terms that they assume we have a working knowledge of, but do you really understand how astronomers arrive at their findings or what it all means?
Cosmologists face a conundrum: how can we study substances we cannot see, let alone manipulate? A powerful approach is to observe objects whose motion is influenced by gravity. Einstein predicted that gravity can act like a lens to bend light. Today we see hundreds of cases of this--instances where the gravity of a distant galaxy distorts our view of a more distant object, creating multiple images or spectacular arcs on the sky. Gravitational lensing is now a key part of the international quest to understand the invisible substance that surrounds us, penetrates us, and binds the universe together.
"A Ray of Light in a Sea of Dark Matter" offers readers a concise, accessible explanation of how astronomers probe dark matter. Readers quickly gain an understanding of what might be out there, how scientists arrive at their findings, and why this research is important to us. Engaging and insightful, Charles Keeton gives everyone an opportunity to be an active learner and listener in our ever-expanding universe.