ASTRO 2212 - The Solar System: Planets, Small Bodies and New Worlds

(PBS-AS, PHS-AS)

Fall. 4 credits. Letter grades only.

Prerequisite: introductory calculus or co-registration in MATH 1110 or MATH 1910; some knowledge of classical physics (mechanics and thermodynamics). Primarily for: first- and second-year Physical Science and Engineering students.

P. Nicholson.

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: planetary orbital and spin dynamics, tidal evolution, the interiors, surfaces, and atmospheres of the planets including the effects of greenhouse gases on climate, and smaller bodies such as satellites, asteroids and comets. Comparisons will be made between planetary systems discovered about other stars and our own solar system. Results from past and current spacecraft missions will be discussed. Final grades will depend on homework sets and on a final team project and in-class presentation, supported by a joint term paper. The course is more in-depth and quantitative than ASTRO 1102/ASTRO 1104. All course materials will be available online.