GG 166: Planetary Geology (3 credits)

Catalog Description

Study of the geology and geophysics of earthlike planets and satellites in the solar system, with emphasis on understanding terrestrial geology in a broader, astronomical context. Topics covered: major processes determining structure and surface features of planets and techniques for remote sensing. (3 hrs. lect.)

Prerequisite: Credit for ASTR 110 and GG 101 or consent of instructor.

Student Learning Outcomes

• Discuss the general characteristics of objects in the solar system and discuss the nature of the sun and its influence planetary systems.
• Outline evolution of planetary surfaces and discuss comparative planetology from a geological perspective.
• Assess the effects and implications of collisional impacts on planetary surfaces.
• Compare and contrast terrestrial and jovian planets and their moons.
• Classify meteorite and discuss their mineral contents; and compare and contrast comets and asteroids.
• Summarize the findings of manned and unmanned space flight.
• Identify the appropriate instruments, detectors and space probes used by astronomers and space scientists to explore the solar system, especially the techniques of remote sensing in planetary exploration.
• Discuss the evidence for extraterrestrial life in the solar system.

Degrees and Certificates at WCC the Course Applies To

• WCC Associate in Arts: DP

Resources

• Geology

Current Offerings

• none

Past Offerings

• None