PHY-10027 - The Solar System
Coordinator: Robin D Jeffries Room: LJ2.08 Tel: +44 1782 7 33892
Lecture Time: See Timetable...
Level: Level 4
Credits: 15
Study Hours: 150
School Office: 01782 734921

Programme/Approved Electives for 2021/22

None

Available as a Free Standing Elective

Yes

Co-requisites

None

Prerequisites

None

Barred Combinations

None

Description for 2021/22

This module provides a broad overview, accessible to non-scientists, of the nature of the objects that comprise our Solar System, from our earliest thoughts about the planets to the latest results from space missions. The module starts with an historical review of our changing understanding of the nature of the planets in the night sky. The surfaces, atmospheres and interiors of the Earth, Moon and the other planets and satellites are discussed and the latest results from our continued exploration of the Solar System presented. The module explores the nature of comets, asteroids and meteorites and what they tell us about the early history of the Solar System. The all important Sun is discussed, along with its influence on the Solar System. The module concludes with the formation of the Sun and planets, and the search of extra-solar planetary systems and the search for extraterrestrial life. The coursework assignments and observational project develop an appreciation for the role of astronomical observations in our understanding of the nature of the Solar System.

Aims
To provide a broad overview, accessible to non-scientists, of the nature of the objects that comprise our Solar System, from our earliest thoughts about the planets to the latest results from space missions.
To develop an appreciation for role of astronomical observations in our understanding of the nature and formation of the Solar System.

Talis Aspire Reading List
Any reading lists will be provided by the start of the course.
http://lists.lib.keele.ac.uk/modules/phy-10027/lists

Intended Learning Outcomes

Demonstrate knowledge of the properties (surfaces, atmospheres and interiors) of the planets and their satellites, the Sun and other objects in the Solar System, the formation of our Solar System and the search for other solar systems and extraterrestrial life: 1,2,3
Collect and manipulate scientific data. Demonstrate the ability to use mathematical calculations and scientific laws to determine other properties of objects from these observations: 1,2,3
Demonstrate an appreciation for the role of astronomical observations, both ground- and space-based, in determining the properties of objects in the Solar System and knowledge of the limitations of observations: 1,2,3

Study hours

Scheduled content delivery: 11 hours
Independent work on coursework assignments: 18 hours
Independent work on observational project: 20 hours
Directed reading of lecture notes and other online material: 33 hours
Examination: 1 hour
Exam preparation and private study: 67 hours


School Rules

None

Description of Module Assessment

1: Open Book Examination weighted 40%
One hour online unseen examination
An online multiple-choice examination of one-hour duration comprising no more than 60 questions.

2: Coursework weighted 40%
Computer-based assignments
Two assessed computer-based coursework assignments. The time taken to complete each is no more than 9 hours.

3: Project weighted 20%
Observational Project
Assessment of quality and accuracy of observations, interpretation of results, and use of internet research resources. The time taken to complete this assessment is no more than 20 hours.