Monash University Handbook 2010 Undergraduate - Unit

Synopsis

Unit provides students with an appreciation and understanding of the concepts and exciting insights gained by astronomers into the nature of the solar system, the galaxy and the cosmos. Material will emphasise key concepts and allow students to gain understanding and the ability to communicate these concepts through a range of activities. Concepts include electromagnetic radiation, optics, gravity, motion and energy, and relativity. These are applied to models of the solar system, the galaxy and the cosmos, to the characteristics of astronomical objects including planets, comets, stars, novae, pulsars, black holes and quasars, and to earth-based instruments and space-probes.

Objectives

On completion of this unit, students will be able to effectively communicate contemporary astronomical ideas to others and demonstrate teamwork skills; outline the development of ideas in astronomy and describe the theories and models used to explain the origin, evolution and structure of the solar system, the galaxy and the cosmos; outline techniques used to derive astronomical information, describe the basic characteristics of astronomical objects including planets, comets, stars, pulsars, quasars, black holes, galaxies; understand and use the physics concepts needed for a basic understanding of astronomy, including electromagnetic radiation and optics, gravity, motion and relativity.

Assessment

Examination (3 hours): 60%
Practical workshops: 25%
Project: 10%
Quizzes: 5%
Students must achieve a pass mark in the practical workshops to achieve an overall pass grade

Chief examiner(s)

Dr. Michael Brown

Contact hours

Three 1-hour lectures and 2-hour practical workshop/tutorial per week

Prerequisites

Secondary science to Year 11 (recommended)