ASTRO 2212

The Solar System: Planets, Satellites, and Rings

Course Description

Course information provided by the 2014-2015 Catalog.

Introduction to the solar system with emphasis on the quantitative application of simple physical principles to the understanding of what we observe or can deduce. Topics include the Sun and the interior processes that control its luminosity, the interiors, surfaces, and atmospheres of the planets including the effects of greenhouse gases, satellites, and small bodies, orbits of solar system bodies and the search for extra-solar planets. Results from past and current spacecraft missions will be discussed including the Cassini mission to the Saturn system and the Mars Exploration Rovers.

Prerequisites/Corequisites Prerequisite: introductory calculus or co-registration in MATH 1110 or MATH 1910; some knowledge of classical physics (mechanics and thermodynamics).

Distribution Category (PBS)

When Offered Fall.

Comments Intended for first- and second-year engineering and physical sciences students.

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