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Department of Electronic & Electrical Engineering, Unit Catalogue 2011/12


EE10145: Space, planetary & atmospheric science

Click here for further information Credits: 6
Click here for further information Level: Certificate (FHEQ level 4)
Click here for further information Period: Semester 2
Click here for further information Assessment: CW 20%, EX 80%
Click here for further information Supplementary Assessment: EE10145E Reassessment Examination (where allowed by programme regulations)
Click here for further information Requisites:
Click here for further information Description: Aims:
This unit introduces (1) The physical properties of the Earth and the planets of the solar system and their formation, (2) Key features in Planetary Atmospheres and in the Space Environment, and (3) The physical properties of the Sun and Stars.

Learning Outcomes:
On successful completion of this unit students will have demonstrated the ability to:
* Describe how the planets of the solar system were formed;
* Describe key physical properties of the planets of the solar system;
* Describe key properties of the Earth's interior, atmosphere, and near-Earth space environment;
* Describe how motions in the Earth's interior generate its magnetic field;
* Give an account of stellar classification and star formation.

Skills:
Students will learn to apply basic physical principles to solve simple problems and to be able to identify and summarise the key points describing geophysical environments.

Content:
Stellar luminosity and distance. Stellar classification and the Hertzsprung-Russell diagram. Solar variability.
The formation of the planets of the solar system.
The composition and basic physics of the Earth's Atmosphere, its heat budget and circulation.
The Earth's ionosphere, near-Earth space environment and the effect of solar variability.
Physical features, and properties, of the surface, interior and atmospheres of other planets in the solar system.
The Earth's internal structure, cause of its magnetic field and the Adams-Williamson Equation.
Moons, rings, tidal phenomena and the Roche Tidal Limit.
Click here for further informationProgramme availability:

EE10145 is Compulsory on the following programmes:

Department of Electronic & Electrical Engineering
  • UEEE-AFB14 : BEng (hons) Electronic Engineering with Space Science & Technology (Full-time) - Year 1
  • UEEE-AKB14 : BEng (hons) Electronic Engineering with Space Science & Technology (Full-time with Thick Sandwich Placement) - Year 1
  • UEEE-AFM14 : MEng (hons) Electronic Engineering with Space Science & Technology (Full-time) - Year 1
  • UEEE-AKM14 : MEng (hons) Electronic Engineering with Space Science & Technology (Full-time with Thick Sandwich Placement) - Year 1

NB. Programmes and units are subject to change at any time, in accordance with normal University procedures.