- Course Code
- KL 157P
- Credit Points
- 20
- Course Coordinator
- Dr S Middleton
Pre-requisites
KL 107G or TS 1001 (or equivalent) desirable
Notes
This course cannot be taken as part of a graduating curriculum with PX 1512.
Overview
This course covers two subjects of global relevance, namely the view of the universe at large that is provided by modern astronomy, and the behaviour of our atmosphere and the weather it creates. The astronomy section of the course begins by showing how long held beliefs about the nature of the universe came to be changed in response to improved observations of the heavens. The revolution in our appreciation of the solar system through explored in the course and the power of science in action can be seen in the far reaching deductions that can be made about stars from modest observational evidence. The course also discusses topics current in astronomy, such as planned space missions, the formation of planets around other stars, and the origin of the moon. The other half of the course, "an introduction to weather, climate and the environment" aims to explain how the atmosphere system, driven by the sun, works. Special topics covered include ozone depletion, el Nino, and long-term climate change. The utility of meteorological resources available on the web is emphasised.
Structure
The course will be delivered on the web over a period of 12 weeks and via a course tutor. There will be a practical assignment activities to be undertaken at home and an optional course visit to Glasgow Planatarium.
Assessment
1st Attempt: 1 two-hour multiple chioce examination (75%) and in course: essays/reports 12.5% Meteorological log 12.5%