AST198H1/AST199H1
AST198H1 – Great Astronomical Issues
Course Description: There are some fundamental questions which humankind has asked itself over the centuries. Many of these involve astronomical origins, events, and objects. Astronomers now have the tools with which to attempt to answer some of the most fundamental questions, such as “Where did it all begin, where are we in space and time, are we alone, and who and what are we?” This seminar will explore some of these great issues. The selection of topics will be made initially by the instructor, but will be modified by the seminar participants at the first class meeting. Topics could include: stellar evolution and the future of the Sun, origin of the elements, origin and future of the Universe, origin of the Earth, origin of life, and extinction of the dinosaurs, global warming, the scientific method, astronomy and the public. Participants will be expected to join actively in lively discussions and to prepare and lead some of the seminars. Restricted to first-year students. Not eligible for CR/NCR option.
Exclusion: AST199H1
Distribution Requirement: Science
Breadth Requirement: The Physical and Mathematical Universes (5)
AST199H1 – Astronomy at the Frontier
Course Description: This seminar series aims at building up general scientific literacy, by discussing selected topics in current astronomy, cosmology, and space science. We will delve into the physical foundation behind the questions being asked and how the answers are being sought. Students will have an opportunity early in the course to select topics of particular interest to them and this will govern the choice of readings as well. Topics could include: formation of stars; lives and deaths of stars; stellar corpses: white dwarfs, neutron stars, and black holes; planets around other stars; recent results from Hubble and other telescopes; architecture of the solar system; exploration in the solar system; the invisible universe: dark energy and dark matter; first light; formation of galaxies; the age and future of the universe. Participants should be comfortable with basic mathematics and quantitative reasoning. Students will be expected to do independent research for essays, presentations, etc. Restricted to first-year students. Not eligible for CR/NCR option.
Exclusion: AST198H1; Open only to newly-admitted, Faculty of Arts & Science students (3.5 credits or less);
Distribution Requirement: Science
Breadth Requirement: The Physical and Mathematical Universes (5)
Current Course Offerings:
Past Course Syllabi: