Astrophysics

1. Cosmology
   1. Structure and evolution of the universe
      1. Large-scale structure of the universe
         1. Cosmic web and its components
         2. Clusters and superclusters
         3. Filaments and voids
      2. Evolutionary models
         1. Hierarchical structure formation
         2. Simulation models and predictions
         3. Observational evidence and refinements
   2. Big Bang theory
      1. Fundamental principles
         1. Initial singularity
         2. Expansion and cooling processes
         3. Formation of fundamental particles and forces
      2. Evidence and implications
         1. Redshift and Hubble's observation
         2. Light element abundance
         3. Cosmic microwave background radiation
            1. Discovery and characteristics
            2. Anisotropies and polarization
            3. Insights on early universe conditions
   3. Dark Matter and Dark Energy
      1. Composition and properties of dark matter
         1. Candidates (WIMPs, axions, MACHOs)
         2. Direct and indirect detection methods
         3. Effects on galaxy rotation curves
      2. Dark energy and its role in cosmology
         1. Cosmological constant vs. quintessence
         2. Influence on large-scale structure formation
         3. Integrated Sachs-Wolfe effect
      3. Effects on universal expansion
         1. Impact on cosmic acceleration
         2. Relationship with cosmological parameters
         3. Experimental observations and constraints
   4. Expansion of the Universe
      1. Hubble's Law and redshift
         1. Velocity-distance relation
         2. Implications for cosmological models
      2. Accelerating universe
         1. Type Ia supernovae as standard candles
         2. Implications for energy density components
         3. The role of dark energy
      3. Observable universe and its boundaries
         1. Cosmic horizon and light cone
         2. Implications for observable phenomena
         3. Limits of current observational capabilities
   5. Cosmic Inflation
      1. Theoretical basis and motivation
         1. Horizon and flatness problems
         2. Predictions of the inflationary model
      2. Models of inflation
         1. Slow-roll inflation
         2. Chaotic and eternal inflation
      3. Evidence and observational tests
         1. Density fluctuations and primordial perturbations
         2. Impacts on cosmic microwave background
   6. Quantum Cosmology
      1. Quantum gravity theories
         1. Loop quantum gravity
         2. String theory and M-theory implications
      2. Early universe conditions
         1. Quantum fluctuations
         2. Role in the formation of large-scale structures
      3. Implications for the multiverse hypothesis
   7. Future of the Universe
      1. Different cosmological scenarios
         1. Big Freeze (heat death)
         2. Big Rip and Big Crunch
         3. Cyclic models and bounce theories
      2. Long-term astrophysical processes
         1. Star and planet evolution
         2. Fate of black holes and other compact objects
      3. Potential role of life in cosmic evolution