Registry

Module Specifications

Archived Version 2010 - 2011

Module Title	The Universe
Module Code	PS108
School	School of Physical Sciences
Online Module Resources
Module Co-ordinator	Dr Eamonn Cunningham	Office Number	N137
NFQ level	8	Credit Rating	5
Pre-requisite	None
Co-requisite	None
Compatibles	None
Incompatibles	None

Description

A general introduction to astronomy & astrophysics assuming no prior knowledge. Including the solar system, stars, galaxies and an introduction to cosmology.

Learning Outcomes

1. Describe the structure and dynamics of the solar system.
2. Calculate the resolving power and capabilities of astronomical instruments at various wavelengths.
3. Explain the power source of stars and the evolution of different types of stars.
4. Describe the properties of galaxies and their distribution in the universe
5. Describe the history of the Universe, the Big Bang theory and its implications for the future evolution of the Universe.

*Type*	*Hours*	*Description*
Workload	Full-time hours per semester
Lecture	25	Lecture
Tutorial	6	Tutorial (problem session)
Directed learning	3	In class tests (3)
Independent Study	91	Independent learning
Total Workload: 125

All module information is indicative and subject to change. For further information,students are advised to refer to the University's Marks and Standards and Programme Specific Regulations at: http://www.dcu.ie/registry/examinations/index.shtml

Indicative Content and Learning Activities

Solar System
Structure and dynamics of the solar system. Kepler's laws and gravitation.

Astronomical Instrumentation
Optical telescopes, resolution and magnitude limits. Radio telescopes and their properties. Observations at other wavelengths.

Stars
Spectrum, luminosity and surface temperature of stars. Nuclear fusion and the life cycle of stars. Hertzsprung-Russell diagram.

Galaxies
Structure and evolution of galaxies. Measuring distances and the expansion of the Universe. Big Bang theory and the cosmic microwave background.

Assessment Breakdown
Continuous Assessment	30%	Examination Weight	70%

Type	Description	% of total	Assessment Date
Course Work Breakdown

Reassessment Requirement
Resit arrangements are explained by the following categories; 1 = A resit is available for all components of the module 2 = No resit is available for 100% continuous assessment module 3 = No resit is available for the continuous assessment component
Unavailable

Indicative Reading List

Ian Morison: 2008, Introduction to Astronomy & Cosmology, Wiley, UK, 978-0-470-03334-0
W.J. Kaufmann and R.A.Freedman: 2005, The Universe, Seventh, Freeman & Co., US, 0-7167-9884-0

Other Resources

604, Moodle website, E Cunningham, 2009, PS108 lecture notes, Ireland,

Programme or List of Programmes

AP	BSc in Applied Physics
BSSA	Study Abroad (DCU Business School)
BSSAO	Study Abroad (DCU Business School)
ECSA	Study Abroad (Engineering & Computing)
ECSAO	Study Abroad (Engineering & Computing)
HMSA	Study Abroad (Humanities & Soc Science)
HMSAO	Study Abroad (Humanities & Soc Science)
PHA	BSc in Physics with Astronomy
SHSA	Study Abroad (Science & Health)
SHSAO	Study Abroad (Science & Health)

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