Dynamics of Astrophysical Discs

Discs occur in a wide variety of astronomical contexts, ranging in size from planetary ring systems to galaxies. Because the dynamical problems posed by each type of disc are remarkably similar, the Astronomy Department of the University of Manchester decided to bring together experts in each area for a conference in December 1988. This book is a collection of the papers presented at the conference. It contains mainly review papers covering recent developments in both theory and observations of planetary ring systems, discs in star-forming regions, protoplanetary discs, accretion discs and galaxy discs presented by an expert in each field. The book also gives brief summaries of contributed papers outlining current research by many of the participants.