ASTRON 236: The History of Matter in the Universe

Fall 2024 · UW–Madison

These notes follow matter from the hot early universe into atoms, stars, and planetary systems. They connect physical models with the observations used to test them, alongside scientific reading and writing.

Topics

• Atomic structure, quantum behavior, and spectroscopy
• Relativity, cosmic expansion, and the early universe
• Stellar evolution and the production of elements
• Planet formation, exoplanet measurements, and habitability
• Scientific evidence, communication, and peer review

Notes

• Lecture notes
• Readings
• Writing assignments, rubrics, and personal submissions
• Historical syllabus and course details

Resources

Lecture notes are based on the supplied ASTRON 236 slides by Sebastian Heinz. Original reading authors and figure credits are retained in the private notes.