ASTR107 - The Universe

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Academic Year 2005/2006

The Universe
ASTR 107 FA

This course focuses on the modern scientific conception of the universe, including its composition, size, age and evolution. We begin with the history of astronomy, tracing the development of thought that led ultimately to the Big Bang theory. This is followed by a closer look at the primary constituent of the universe--galaxies. We end with consideration of the origin and ultimate fate of the universe.

MAJOR READINGS

Kihn, Thomas, THE COPERNICAN REVOLUTION
Cornell, James, ed., BUBLES, VOIDS AND BUMPS IN TIME: THE NEW COSMOLOGY
Kirshner, Robert, THE EXTRAVAGANT UNIVERSE
Hawking, Stephen, A BRIEF HISTORY OF TIME: FROM THE BIG BANG TO BLACK HOLES (optional)

EXAMINATIONS AND ASSIGNMENTS

Two term tests and a final exam, weekly laboratory assignments.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS and/or COMMENTS

This is a general education course intended primarily for non-science majors. It does not require mathematics beyond a modest high school preparation. There are weekly laboratory assignments and meetings associated with the course, some of which will be at night so that objects may be viewed through telescopes at the Van Vleck Observatory.

COURSE FORMAT: Lecture

REGISTRATION INFORMATION

Level: UGRD Credit: 1 Gen Ed Area Dept: NSM ASTR Grading Mode: Graded

Prerequisites: NONE

SECTION 01

Instructor(s): Herbst,William

Times: .M.W.F. 11:00AM-11:50AM; .M..... 01:10PM-02:30PM; Location: VVO110; VVOB10;

Reserved Seats: (Total Limit: 20)

SR. major: 0 Jr. major: 0

SR. non-major: 5 Jr. non-major: 5 SO: 5 FR: 5

Special Attributes:

Curricular Renewal: Quantitative Reasoning, Focused Inquiry Course

SECTION 02