PHYS-144 - Survey of Astronomy

4 credits

This course is a survey of the science of astronomy. The course is designed to satisfy laboratory science transfer credit requirements. Topics covered include how we learn about the universe through an understanding of atomic and subatomic structure, electromagnetic radiation and gravity, and what we currently know of the universe. Covered in depth will be star formation, dynamics and evolution and the structure, dynamics and evolution of galaxies. Cosmological topics such as the Big Bang, dark matter and the accelerating expansion of the universe and the implications on its ultimate fate will be discussed. As time allows additional topics with an emphasis on current developments in astronomy will be presented. Scientific Calculator and WEB access required. Some outdoor observations may be conducted. Offered intermittently.

Prerequisite(s): ALGB-087 with a minimum grade of C- (or equivalent) and placement at ENG-101.

Corequisite(s): PHYS-144L

Mass Transfer Block: Credits earned in this course are counted towards the MassTransfer Block Natural or Physical Science requirements.