ASTR& 110 - The Solar System

Credits: 5
LEC hours per week: 4
LAB hours per week: 2
This course, which includes a lab, examines the formation of our solar system and the nature of our sun and planets and is intended for the student interested in astronomy or in order to fulfill the general education lab science requirements. Topics include the historical development of the science of astronomy. Formerly: ASTR 110.
Prerequisite(s): MATH 046 with a P or appropriate placement; ENGL 087 or AENG 100 with a grade of C or higher or appropriate placement; or permission of the Science Division Chair or designee.
Recommended: READ 088 or higher.
Course Outcomes:

Describe how the scientific method is used in the acquisition and application of “scientific knowledge”.
Describe the enormity of the scales of both distance and time in the universe.
Analyze the motion of orbiting bodies using the basic law of gravity.
Identify the various objects which make up our solar system: The Sun, terrestrial planets, jovian planets, and numerous smaller bodies.
Compare and contrast the models of solar system formation.

Course Topics:

Basics of astronomical studies- the scientific methods, laws of nature, and appropriate units of measure
Cycles in the sky: seasons, lunar phases, and eclipses
Evolution of the understanding of our “place” in the universe
Gravity and its role in the behavior of astronomical motions
Structure and behavior of the Earth, including effects of the Moon
A survey of the planets, their natural satellites, and smaller objects in the Solar System
Solar system formation

Course Attribute(s): Natural Science