PHYS 114 - Survey Astronomy

Institution:

Massasoit Community College

Subject:

Physics

Description:

This is a one semester, introductory astronomy course which is designed to acquaint students with a basic understanding and appreciation of our universe, but with emphasis on the Solar System and the nature of the celestial bodies inhabiting it and the mechanics of their orbits. Emphasis is placed upon understanding scientific concepts as opposed to rote memorization. Topics included in the course are the nature and scale of the universe, observing the night sky from Earth, seasonal changes in the night sky and the Sun's place on the celestial sphere, the celestial coordinate system, highlights from the historical development of astronomy, the force of gravity and the motion of planets and other celestial bodies, origin of the Solar System, the Earth and the Moon, the planets of the Solar System, and the Sun. Students are expected to do some observing on their own and to become familiar with the night sky with the help of star charts which the instructor will provide to them. Prerequisite: Intermediate Algebra and Trigonometry (MATH112), or waiver by placement testing results, or Permission of Instructor

Credits:

3.00

Credit Hours:

Prerequisites:

Corequisites:

Exclusions:

Level:

Instructional Type:

Lecture

Notes:

Additional Information:

Historical Version(s):

Institution Website:

www.massasoit.mass.edu

Phone Number:

(508) 588-9100

Regional Accreditation:

New England Association of Schools and Colleges

Calendar System:

Semester

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