Astrophysics and astronomy are often used interchangeably, but they are actually two distinct fields of study that overlap in some areas but also have some key differences.
Astrophysics is a branch of physics that deals specifically with the study of the universe as a whole, including its origins, structure, and evolution. Astrophysicists use a variety of tools and techniques to observe and study the universe, such as telescopes, satellites, and other instruments that allow them to see the universe in different wavelengths of light. They also use mathematical models and computer simulations to analyze the data they collect and to develop theories and models that explain the observations and phenomena they study. Some of the key topics studied by astrophysicists include the properties and behavior of planets and exoplanets, the life cycle of stars, the formation and evolution of galaxies, and the properties and behavior of black holes.
Astronomy, on the other hand, is the scientific study of the universe and its contents, including celestial objects and phenomena. Astronomers use a variety of tools and techniques to observe and study the universe, such as telescopes, satellites, and other instruments that allow them to see the universe in different wavelengths of light. They also use mathematical models and computer simulations to analyze the data they collect and to develop theories and models that explain the observations and phenomena they study. Some of the key questions that astronomers seek to answer include: How did the universe form and evolve? What are the properties and behaviors of celestial objects and phenomena? How do celestial objects and phenomena interact with one another? Is there life beyond Earth?
Overall, both astrophysics and astronomy are concerned with the study of the universe and its contents, and they often overlap in their areas of focus. However, astrophysics tends to focus more on the physical properties and processes that govern the behavior of celestial objects and phenomena, while astronomy focuses more on the observation and study of celestial objects and phenomena themselves.