ASP1022

Life and the Universe (6 points)

(SCI)

Leader: Dr John Lattanzio (School of Mathematical Sciences)

Offered:
Clayton Second semester 2003 (Day)
Clayton Second semester 2004 (Day)

Synopsis: The characteristics of life, how life first appeared on the earth, whether these conditions can be expected to occur on other planets, the formation of stars and planets, the dynamics of planetary orbits and the habitable zones around stars, different kinds of stars and the light they emit, whether consciousness arises from elementary interactions between atoms and molecules, whether computers can be said to be conscious, the final state of the universe and the implications for any life present.

Assessment: Examination (3 hours): 60% + Tutorials: 30% + Project work: 10%

Contact Hours: Three 1-hour lectures and one 2-hour laboratory class per week

Prerequisites: Secondary science to Year 11 and mathematics to Year 12 (recommended)