Galaxy Formation and Evolution

The rapidly expanding field of galaxy formation lies at the interface between astronomy, particle physics, and cosmology. Covering diverse topics from these disciplines, all of which are needed to understand how galaxies form and evolve, this book is ideal for researchers entering the field. Individual chapters explore the evolution of the Universe as a whole and its particle and radiation content; linear and nonlinear growth of cosmic structure; processes affecting the gaseous and dark matter components of galaxies and their stellar populations; the formation of spiral and elliptical galaxies; central supermassive black holes and the activity associated with them; galaxy interactions; and the intergalactic medium. Emphasizing both observational and theoretical aspects, this book provides a coherent introduction for astronomers, cosmologists, and astroparticle physicists to the broad range of science underlying the formation and evolution of galaxies.
 * Serves as an effective introduction to the broad range of science at the interface between astronomy, cosmology and particle physics
 * Presents material at the right technical level needed to start original research in this area
 * Chapters cover the evolution of the Universe, the formation of spiral and elliptical galaxies, and central supermassive black holes, and much more
 * Chapters cover the evolution of the Universe, the formation of spiral and elliptical galaxies, and central supermassive black holes, and much more

Reviews & endorsements
"Unraveling the origin and growth of cosmic structures, from the simplicity of the Big Bang to the complexity of the modern Universe, is an unparalleled achievement of modern science. Written by renowned world experts, this book presents a clear, systematic and comprehensive exposition of the physics and mathematics underlying these breathtaking advances. It is compulsory reading not only for those aspiring to contribute to our growing understanding of the cosmos, but for all those who appreciate the beauty and power of contemporary physical science." - Carlos S. Frenk, Ogden Professor of Fundamental Physics, Director, Institute for Computational Cosmology, Durham University