Astrophysics, Cosmology & Relativity
4 terms
Big Bang
Astrophysics, Cosmology & Relativity
Cosmological Epoch (Years)
The prevailing cosmological model describing the universe as originating from an extremely hot, dense state ~13.8 billion years ago and expanding ever since.
T_universe ≈ 13.787 ± 0.020 billion years
Binary Star System
Astrophysics, Cosmology & Relativity
AU (Semi-major axis) & Years (Period)
A stellar system consisting of two gravitationally bound stars orbiting around their common center of mass.
P² = (4 π² / (G (M₁ + M₂))) a³ (Kepler's 3rd Law)
Black Hole
Astrophysics, Cosmology & Relativity
Solar Masses (M_☉) or Kilograms
A region of spacetime where gravitational acceleration is so intense that nothing, including light, can escape beyond its event horizon.
R_s = 2 G M / c²
Brown Dwarf
Astrophysics, Cosmology & Relativity
Jupiter Masses (M_J) or M_☉
A substellar object intermediate in mass between giant gas planets and low-mass stars, incapable of sustaining stable core hydrogen fusion.
13 M_J ≤ M < 80 M_J (~0.013 to 0.08 M_☉)