Astrophysical

/ˌæstroʊfɪˈzɪkəl/ adjective

Definition

Relating to the physics of stars, galaxies, and all objects and phenomena in space.

Etymology

From astro- (star) combined with physical (relating to physics). The term emerged in the late 19th century as astronomers increasingly applied physics principles to understand celestial objects.

Kelly Says

Astrophysics revolutionized astronomy by explaining *why* stars shine (nuclear fusion), not just *where* they are—connecting the physics of atoms to the evolution of galaxies across billions of years.

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