Unit information: Evolution of the Terrestrial Planets in 2011/12

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Unit name Evolution of the Terrestrial Planets
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

Description including Unit Aims

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.