Atomic and molecular astrophysics

Atomic and molecular astrophysics is the study of the behavior and properties of atoms and molecules in space, and how they affect the universe around us. To understand this, we first need to know what atoms and molecules are.

Atoms are like tiny building blocks that make up everything around us. They have a central nucleus made up of tiny particles called protons and neutrons, with even tinier particles called electrons orbiting around them. Molecules, on the other hand, are made up of two or more atoms that are bonded together.

Now, when we look up at the night sky, we see thousands of stars and galaxies that look like shiny dots. We know that these objects are made up of gases, dust, and other materials, just like everything else in the universe. But what we might not know is that these materials contain countless atoms and molecules.

By studying atomic and molecular astrophysics, scientists can learn about the chemical makeup of these objects and how they interact with each other. This helps us understand how stars are born and how they die, how galaxies form, and how the universe as a whole evolves over time.

For example, scientists can use telescopes to observe the light emitted by stars and other celestial objects. This light can tell us a lot about what elements and molecules are present. By studying this light, we can learn about the temperature and pressure of these objects, their motion, and their composition.

Overall, atomic and molecular astrophysics helps us better understand the workings of the universe and how its different parts are connected.