phsi 170 sun, earth and universe physics · seeds, m.a. and backman, d.e., foundations of...
TRANSCRIPT
PHSI 170 Sun, Earth and Universe
Physics
18 points
This course progresses in a largely descriptive way through the essentials of our understanding
of the Sun-Earth system and its place in the wider universe. Lecture topics include ancient,
classical and modern astronomy, stellar evolution, supernovae, black holes, cosmology and the
exploration of the solar system. Special topics will be included, some examples of which are:
the size and age of the universe; the search for extraterrestrial intelligence; and what the effect
would be of a large meteor impact on Earth. The importance of historical aspects and the
progressive development of ideas will be emphasised, with a minimum of mathematics. This
course is intended for students who have an interest in broad education. We aim to facilitate a
continuing interest in astronomy and space exploration.
Prerequisite
None
Restriction
None
Open for Interest Only enrolment – lectures only (with Head of Department permission)
Time commitment
Lectures Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu: 1300-1350 – QUAD4
Tutorials Wed: 1100-1150 or 1500-1550
Practicals Thu: 0900-1150 or 1500-1750
Please see
http://www.physics.otago.ac.nz/internal/PHSI170/PHSI170_2013_Lecture_topicplan.pdf
for tutorial and practical teaching rooms
Lecturer
Associate Professor Craig Rodger and Associate Professor David Hutchinson (course
coordinators)
Prescribed textbook
Seeds, M.A. and Backman, D.E., Foundations of Astronomy, 12th
edition, Thomson
Brooks/Cole, 2013
Assessment
Laboratories and discussion groups 15%
Essays (2 7.5%) 15%
Mid-school test 10%
Final examination (2 hours) 60%
Class limits
Minimum 20, maximum 50
Fees
Domestic (including Interest Only) $895.95, International $3795.00, Study Abroad
$2925.00.
Each student studying on campus incurs an additional Student Services fee of $112.
To receive the Otago Summer School Prospectus and Registration Form go to: www.otago.ac.nz/summerschool or contact Summer School and Continuing Education email [email protected] or tel 03 479 9181INFORMATION LINE 0800 80 80 98
Otago Summer School 07 January – 21 February 2013
PHSI170
Sun, Earth and Universe
2O13
Discover what we know about the universe and how we know it
The Eagle Nebula (M16) 6500 light years from Earth Image Credit: T. A. Rector & B. A. Wolpa (NOAO/AURA/NSF)