PHYSICS15

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Stars and Planets in a Habitable Universe

Physics H&S - Humanities & Sciences

Course Description

How do stars form from the gas in galaxies? How do stars and galaxies evolve, and how can these processes give rise to planets and the conditions suitable for life? How do we, from our little corner of the cosmos, collect and decipher information about the Universe? This course covers the solar system and celestial motions, the life cycle of stars, the structure of our Milky Way galaxy, and the discovery of exoplanets: planets orbiting stars beyond our Sun. Intended to be accessible to non-science majors, the material is explored quantitatively with problem sets using basic algebra and numerical estimates. Sky observing and observatory field trips supplement the coursework.

Grading Basis

ROP - Letter or Credit/No Credit

Min

3

Max

3

Course Repeatable for Degree Credit?

No

Course Component

Discussion

Enrollment Optional?

Yes

Course Component

Lecture

Enrollment Optional?

No

This course has been approved for the following WAYS

Scientific Method and Analysis (SMA)

Does this course satisfy the University Language Requirement?

No

Programs

PHYSICS15 is a completion requirement for: