PHY 111, Fall, 2005

Week 1

 

  Main Objectives
bulletYou should be able to use powers of ten notation
bulletYou should be able to identify the basic classes of objects seen when looking at the night sky.
bulletYou should be able to define astronomical unit and light-year.
bulletYou should be able to do scale model calculations.  You should have a good mental picture of relative sizes and distances in the solar system.  You should be able to extend this mental picture to include stars and galaxies.
bulletYou should be able to describe the use of constellations in modern astronomy.
bulletYou should be able to describe what is meant by the term ecliptic.
bulletYou should be able to explain:
bulletwhat casues the stars to move through the sky during the night
bulletwhy we see different constellations in June and December
bulletwhat is special about circumpolar constellations
bulletwhat is the difference is between a solar day and a sidereal day.
Tuesday Overview of course policies and procedures as well as study tips.  Overview of objects in the universe and the distance units used in astronomy.

Outside of class: Read  How to Succeed in Your Astronomy Course and all handouts received in class.  Read the Prologue in your textbook.  Complete Getting Acquainted Assignment for Thursday.
Thursday Activity on scale model calculations.  Lecture on the apparent motion of the Sun and stars.

Outside of class: Read Ch. 1 Sec. 1-2 and Ch. 6 Sec. 1-2.