An Introduction to Active Galactic Nuclei [Paperback]

The first comprehensive graduate-level textbook on one of the most dynamic areas of contemporary astronomy - the study of 'active galactic nuclei'.At least one galaxy in every hundred has a core so bright it outshines the ten thousand million stars that make up rest of the galaxy. The study of these 'active galactic nuclei' (AGN) is one of the most dynamic areas of contemporary astronomy, involving one fifth of all research astronomers. This textbook provides a clear, comprehensive and self-contained introduction to AGN for advanced undergraduates and graduate students in astronomy and physics. It presents a systematic review of the observed properties of AGN across the entire electromagnetic spectrum, examines the underlying physics, and shows how the brightest AGN, quasars, can be used to probe the Universe. It serves as an entry point to the research literature and an invaluable reference for researchers in the field.At least one galaxy in every hundred has a core so bright it outshines the ten thousand million stars that make up rest of the galaxy. The study of these 'active galactic nuclei' (AGN) is one of the most dynamic areas of contemporary astronomy, involving one fifth of all research astronomers. This textbook provides a clear, comprehensive and self-contained introduction to AGN for advanced undergraduates and graduate students in astronomy and physics. It presents a systematic review of the observed properties of AGN across the entire electromagnetic spectrum, examines the underlying physics, and shows how the brightest AGN, quasars, can be used to probe the Universe. It serves as an entry point to the research literature and an invaluable reference for researchers in the field.The study of AGN is one of the most dynamic areas of contemporary astronomy, involving one-fifth of all research astronomers. This textbook provides a systematic review of the observed properties of AGN across the entire electromagnetic spectrum, examines the underlying physics,ls*