Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Spring 2018 - EASC 108 D100

Exploring the Solar System (3)

Class Number: 1966

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Jan 3 – Apr 10, 2018: Mon, 3:30–4:50 p.m.
    Burnaby

    Jan 3 – Apr 10, 2018: Wed, 3:30–4:50 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Exam Times + Location:

    Apr 16, 2018
    Mon, 8:30–11:30 a.m.
    Burnaby

  • Instructor:

    Glyn Williams-Jones
    glynwj@sfu.ca
    1 778 782-3306
    Office: TASC 1 Room 7225

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

An introduction to the geology of our solar system through a comparative survey of the planets. Emphasis will be on the geology of the Earth and how we can use this knowledge to learn more about the neighboring planets. A wealth of accessible information now exists from which we can attempt to reconstruct the geological history of each planetary surface in our solar system. Comparative planetology will be used to explore such topics as the structure and origin of the solar system, the origin and fate of the Earth, the importance of water in the solar system, the formation and geological history of planetary lithospheres and atmospheres. Breadth-Science.

COURSE DETAILS:

General: REQUIREMENT DESIGNATION: B-Sci
EASC 108 is an introduction to the geology and physics of our solar system through a comparative survey of the planets.  Emphasis is on how knowledge of the Earth can be used to learn more about the neighboring (terrestrial) planets. A wealth of accessible information now exists from which we can attempt to reconstruct the geological history of each planetary surface in our solar system. 

Course Topics:

  • Comparative planetology
  • Planetary surfaces (impact cratering, landslides, aeolian and fluvial processes, plate tectonics, etc.)
  • The formation and geological history of planetary lithospheres, hydrospheres, cryospheres and atmospheres.
  • Structure, origin and fate of the solar system (Oort and Kuiper objects, terrestrial versus Jovian planets, condensation sequence of the protostellar nebula, the central player – the sun)
  • Cratering morphology and mechanics
  • Planetary interiors (including magnetic field generation).

Grading

  • Quizzes (weekly) 10%
  • Midterm Exam #1 25%
  • Mid-term Exam #2 25%
  • Final Exam (comprehensive) 40%

NOTES:

Students may not use this course for credit towards EASC major or minor program requirements.

Materials

REQUIRED READING:

None

RECOMMENDED READING:

“The Solar System, 9th Edition”, M.A. Seeds & D. Backman, 2016; Nelson Education
ISBN: 9781305120761

“Exploring the Solar System”, P. Bond, 2012; Wiley
ISBN: 978-1-4051-3499-6

"An Introduction to the Solar System”, Revised Edition;  D.A. Rothery, N. McBride, I. Gilmour; 2011; Cambridge University Press
ISBN: 978-1-1076-0092-8

Registrar Notes:

SFU’s Academic Integrity web site http://students.sfu.ca/academicintegrity.html is filled with information on what is meant by academic dishonesty, where you can find resources to help with your studies and the consequences of cheating.  Check out the site for more information and videos that help explain the issues in plain English.

Each student is responsible for his or her conduct as it affects the University community.  Academic dishonesty, in whatever form, is ultimately destructive of the values of the University. Furthermore, it is unfair and discouraging to the majority of students who pursue their studies honestly. Scholarly integrity is required of all members of the University. http://www.sfu.ca/policies/gazette/student/s10-01.html

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS