astrophysics

[ as-troh-fiz-iks ]

noun

, (used with a singular verb)

1. the branch of astronomy that deals with the physical properties of celestial bodies and with the interaction between matter and radiation in the interior of celestial bodies and in interstellar space.

astrophysics

/ ˌæstrəʊˈfɪzɪks /

noun

1. functioning as singular the branch of physics concerned with the physical and chemical properties, origin, and evolution of the celestial bodies

astrophysics

/ ăs′trō-fĭz′ĭks /

1. The branch of astronomy that deals with the physical and chemical processes that occur in stars, galaxies, and interstellar space. Astrophysics deals with the structure and evolution of stars, the properties of interstellar space and its interactions with systems of stars, and with the structure and dynamics of clusters of stars such as galaxies.

astrophysics

1. The branch of astronomy devoted to the study of the physical characteristics and composition of objects in the sky. Typical concerns of astrophysics are how much light the stars give off and the size, mass , and temperature of planets and stars.

Derived Forms

• ˌastroˈphysical, adjective
• ˌastroˈphysicist, noun

Other Words From

• astro·physi·cal adjective
• as·tro·phys·i·cist [as-troh-, fiz, -, uh, -sist], noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of astrophysics¹

First recorded in 1885–90; astro- + physics

Example Sentences

Neil deGrasse Tyson’s life-long love of science led him to astrophysics and a career as the nation’s premiere voice on making science accessible for all.

From Slate

Nasir claimed to have degrees in subjects including physics and astrophysics, as well as qualifications in operating theatre technique, leadership, teaching and many more.

From BBC

“These artificial neural networks have been used to advance research across physics topics as diverse as particle physics, material science and astrophysics,” said Ellen Moons, chair of the Nobel Committee for Physics, at the announcement.

From Los Angeles Times

Newly discovered by astronomers publishing for the journal Astronomy and Astrophysics, Barnard b orbits the closest solo star to our own solar system, known as Barnard's star.

From Salon

The findings are published in the scientific journal Astronomy and Astrophysics.

From BBC