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Case Studies in Star Formation offers an overview of our current observational and theoretical understanding in the molecular astronomy of star formation. The book is divided into six sections: the first introduces an overview of star formation and the essential language, concepts and tools specific to molecular astronomy studies. Each subsequent section focuses on individual sources, beginning with a description of large-scale surveys. The volume covers low- and high mass star formation, ionization and photodissociation regions, and concludes with the extragalactic perspective. Conventional textbooks begin with principles, ending with a few convenient examples. Through copious examples, Case Studies reflects the reality of research, which requires the creative matching of ongoing observations to theory and vice-versa, often raising as many questions as answers. This supplementary study guide enables graduate students and early researchers to bridge the gap between textbooks and the wealth of research literature.
Neutrons, gamma rays, and X-rays are used to measure the subsurface elemental composition of Solar System bodies, providing insights into their formation and evolution. Neutrons and gamma rays are highly penetrating particles made by the steady bombardment of the regolith of airless bodies by galactic cosmic rays. Gamma rays are also made by the decay of natural radioelements. The escaping radiation can be detected in close-proximity orbits and analyzed to determine subsurface elemental composition to depths of a few decimeters. Because the radiation sensors have nearly omnidirectional response, spatial resolution depends on orbital altitude. X-ray fluorescence is induced by solar X-rays. Consequently, X-ray spectroscopy is most useful for studies of objects in the inner Solar System. Characteristic elemental X-rays are made within the uppermost ~100 micrometers of the surface. The suite of elements analyzed overlaps that of nuclear spectroscopy, providing complementary geochemical information. Because X-rays are easily collimated, relatively high spatial resolution measurements are possible. This chapter presents the fundamentals of neutron, gamma-ray, and X-ray production, transport, and detection along with an overview of the measurement principles, including modeling, analysis, and mapping methods.
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