Next: Scientific Notation
Mathematics is an essential part of astronomy. Many relationships between properties of stars, distances, sizes, temperatures, etc. can be expressed accurately and concisely in terms of a mathematical formula. Although the material covered in this course is primarily descriptive and non-mathematical, problem solving and the use of appropriate mathematical formulae is a very important part of the course. It is expected that each student will become adept at solving problems and will demonstrate his ability both in the homework assignments listed in the syllabus and on the examinations.
The mathematics in Astronomy Today is usually explained well in the text, but the formulae are scattered throughout the book. On these pages, I have attempted to consolidate the mathematics you will need in the course and to give a brief explanation about how each formula is used and if appropriate, derived. I have also listed the page in Astronomy Today on which each formula initially appears as well as the homework problems which depend on each of the equations.
We will be referring to this handout throughout the class. By the end of the course, you will all be familiar with each of the equations listed here.