Physics of the Planetary System

4 credit points

Syllabus, C-level, 1TT536

Code
1TT536
Level
C
Subject(s)
Physics
Grading system
Pass with distinction (5), Pass with credit (4), Pass (3), Fail (U)
Finalised
13 May 2002
Responsible department
Department of Physics and Astronomy

Entry requirements

Atomic and Molecular Physics, Quantum Mechanics or corresponding courses.

Aims

After the finished course the student is expected to

* have a basic knowledge about the physical and chemical processes that governs the structure and development of planets, satellites and ring systems

* account for the importance of comparative studies within planetology

* have a basic knowledge about the small bodies in the solar system, their properties and how they interact with planets and moons

* have a knowledge about the formation of the solar system, including dynamical and collisional processes in the planetary system

* account for the frontline research of our own solar system as one of many in the Milky Way galaxy, as well as the observed properties of other planetary systems

Content

The dynamics of the planetary system. The formation of the solar system including the physics of accretion discs around protostars, and the physics and chemistry of the solar nebula. Meteoroites, and their testimony of the formation and evolution of the solar system. The small bodies of the solar system. The physics of the planets and the moons. The satellite and ring systems of the giant planets. The atmospheres of planets. Magnetospheres and radiation belts and the interaction with the solar wind. Collisional processes in the planetary system. Other planetary systems and stellar discs.

Instruction

Lectures, exercises and laboratory exercises.

Assessment

Passed hand-in exercises, corresponding to 3.5 credits and laboratory exercises, corresponding to 2.5 credits.

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