Unit name | Evolution of the Terrestrial Planets |
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Unit code | EASC30009 |
Credit points | 10 |
Level of study | H/6 |
Teaching block(s) |
Teaching Block 1B (weeks 7 - 12) |
Unit director | Professor. Tim Elliott |
Open unit status | Not open |
Pre-requisites |
Successful completion of the third year of a Geology programme curriculum. |
Co-requisites |
None |
School/department | School of Earth Sciences |
Faculty | Faculty of Science |
The course will examine the processes that shape the gross composition and structure of the terrestrial planets. The course will concentrate on planetary formation from nebula accretion and initial differentiation but will cover major subsequent changes. The Earth will be used as a well-studied reference to understand both physical and chemical aspects of planetary-scale evolution. Additionally, differences between the Earth, Mars, Venus and Mercury will be investigated, with an emphasis on the fundamental processes that control the properties that control the terrestrial planets.