640-176 The Solar System and the Cosmos

Credit Points

12.5

HECS Band

2

Coordinator

Dr R Webster

Semester

1 (view timetable)

Contact

36 lectures (three per week); 30 hours practical work (3 hours per week)

Subject Description

Astronomy is one of the most rapidly changing branches of science. The latest results from the Hubble space telescope and other telescopes will be given. How they affect our understanding in a range of fascinating topics, such as black holes, other planets, comets and extraterrestrial life, will be discussed. Scientific methods used to investigate the solar system and the cosmos will be explained. Basic physical concepts required to understand the formation and evolution of our solar system, and also the structure of the universe on the largest scales, will be presented. Topics in cosmology will include 'Big Bang' models, the 'missing mass' problem, and the first few seconds of the universe.

Assessment

A 3-hour end-of-semester written examination (75%); continuously assessed practical work (25%).

Prescribed Texts

  • W J Kaufmann and R A Freedman, Universe. 5th ed., Freeman, 1999.


Status:                   Official 2002
Last Modified:            Tuesday May 07 22:11
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Authorised by:            Academic Registrar
Email Enquiries:          Course_Information@registrar.unimelb.edu.au

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