What is the difference between astrophysics and cosmology

Astronomy is a natural science that deals with the study of celestial objects such as stars, planets, comets, nebulae, star clusters and galaxies and phenomena that originate outside the atmosphere of Earth such as cosmic background radiation. It is concerned with the evolution, physics, chemistry, meteorology, and motion of celestial objects, as well as the formation and development of the universe. Astrophysics is the branch of astronomy that deals with the physics of the universe, including the physical properties of celestial objects, as well as their interactions and behaviour.

Among the objects studied are galaxies, stars, planets, exoplanets, the interstellar medium and the cosmic microwave background.

Cosmology is the discipline that deals with the nature of the Universe as a whole. Cosmologists seek to understand the origin, evolution, structure, and ultimate fate of the Universe at large, as well as the natural laws that keep it in order.

And then, Astronomy is primarily concerned with observing and measuring the relative positions and paths than giving explanations. On the other hand, Astrophysics and Cosmology try to explain the phenomenon observed. Usually, the students of astronomy focus on classical mechanics and optical methods to be able to observe celestial bodies.

Astrophysicists concern general relativity and nuclear physics as two important tools to describe stars or galaxies.

But cosmologists are interested in modern theories too, especially string theory. This also explains the name: Particle Astrophysics and Astro Particlephysics. It is the study of astronomical celestial phenomenon as an effect of interactions between fundamental particles. Feb 16, Explanation: Astronomy is a natural science that deals with the study of celestial objects, such as stars, planets, comets, nebulae, star clusters and galaxies.

Related questions Why do astronomers use scientific notation to describe sizes? What is astronomy? What types of jobs are available for those who hold a degree in astronomy?

What is the meaning of the word astronomy? How would you calculate the energy of a photon with a known frequency? What is the difference between astronomy and astrology? Johannes Kepler was a famous astronomer and mathematician who:.

Isaac Newton came along and explained the physics behind the solar system using the laws of celestial dynamics and gravitation. Modern astronomy also includes the study of many elements of motion and the characteristics of these bodies. Today, astronomy and astrophysics are often used interchangeably. However, modern astronomers do not all study the same thing. In fact, it can be broken into two main branches:.

Observational astronomy is what we often think of when we use the term astronomy. This is observing the celestial objects of outer space, such as:. There are actually different types of observational astronomy based upon the focus of the objects under study. Theoretical astronomers use mathematical models to better describe what we observed in the universe.

Astronomers cannot observe a solar system during its entire existence, that is, from birth to death. So, therefore, theoretical scientists use information from observational and theoretical astronomy to create simulations.

These simulations help us to gain a better understanding of the universe we live in. Astronomy also has subfields.

This allows scientists to actually specialize in particular objects and phenomena. Cosmologists focus on the universe in its entirety, from its violent birth during the Big Bang to the present evolution and continuing all the way to its eventual death.

It addresses concepts such as:. And space-time is flexible like fabric which bends because of massive objects. So things start to revolve around it at a fixed speed.

Isaac Newton said that space and time are absolute. However, according to Einstein, space-time is relative, which presents the concept of time dilation.

Basically, gravity affects time. Where there is high gravity, time will slow down. Where there is low gravity, time will move faster. This led to the concept of wormholes which are rooted in the idea that if there is a break in space-time, it might be possible to take advantage of that rift. This opened up another possibility:. Time gets slower where there is more gravity, so all we have to do is increase gravity to the point we can travel back in time. So, theoretically, it is possible. Yes, we might be able to go back in time and change historical events, so those tragedies do not happen.

Yet, should you? Change the event would change history, and thus, change you and who you are. This is called the predestination paradox. Using a time machine, you head back in time and kill your grandfather. But, then, your father might not exist. And, if your father never existed, how can you exist? Basically, if you go back in time, you cannot change anything at all. But, asking these questions open up amazing possibilities, which leads to new questions and new concepts.

Animals Astronomy Science.