Premium Essay

Astronomy Question Assignment

In:

Submitted By asianboy123
Words 1029
Pages 5
Submitting Essays
Essays are due before midnight on Sunday Oct 11th (end of week 10). They should be submitted online through the submission box provided in the
Assessments page on Moodle. You can submit in a range of file formats (MS
Word, WordPerfect, PDF, Postscript, HTML, RTF and plain text).

Essay Topics — Choose one of the following
1. History of Radio Telescopes
Describe the development of single dish radio telescopes and advantages of radio interferometers. Discuss major discoveries that were possible after detection of radio waves from space and how they changed our understanding of Universe.

2. The Earliest Evidence for Life
Review the earliest evidence for life on Earth. What form does the evidence take and where is it found. Discuss the controversies relating to some of this evidence and give your conclusion on the earliest date at which we can be confident that life was present on Earth.

3. Atmosphere Evolution on Rocky Planets
Compare evolution of atmosphere on Earth, Venus and Mars, and explain differences in current atmospheric conditions on these planets. Describe how the
Earth’s atmosphere helped life to originate, survive and develop, and how has life affected the atmosphere over time.

4. Life in Extreme Conditions
Explain what extremophile life forms are and where they are found on Earth. In view of what we have learnt about extremophiles discuss the possibility of extraterrestrial life in different places of our Solar system.

5. Key Space Missions
Choose ONE of the following space missions and give an account of the mission describing the challenges it had to overcome and the mission’s achievements.
Describe in particular how it has influenced our understanding of the possibilities of past or present life in the solar system. o The Viking dual orbiter/lander mission to Mars. o The Galileo orbiter/probe

Similar Documents

Premium Essay

Basics of Astronomy Outline

...SCI/151 Week 1 Assignment Basics of Astronomy Outline I. Our place in the universe A. The modern view of the universe 1. The Sun is a star in our solar system that generates heat and light to our planet, Earth through nuclear fusion. 2. Our Milky Way galaxy is an island of stars in space with hundreds of billions of stars like our Sun. 3. The Big Bang is a theory of when the universe started expanding about 14 billion years ago. 4. The phase “looking out in the universe is looking back in time,” refers to the light from other stars we see at night happened in 1913 because light takes time to travel through space. B. Where are we in the universe? 1. Earth’s place in the solar system is the third planet nearest to the Sun, a star. It is very small but the only dense planet with life forms. 2. The nearest stars to the Sun and compare the distance between the Sun and Earth a. The nearest star system is Alpha Centauri that is 4.4 light-years away. b. The distance between the Earth, and the Sun is 92,600,000 miles; it takes eight minutes for light from the Sun to reach Earth. 3. The Milky Way galaxy is about one hundred thousand light-years in diameter. 4. It is estimated that one hundred billion stars are in our galaxy. 5. The Earth is only four and one-half billion years of age in comparison to the universe is 14 billion. C. Motion in the universe 1. Earth orbits the Sun at 66,000 miles per hour that is equal to 107,000 kilometers per hour, which is one...

Words: 978 - Pages: 4

Free Essay

Astrobiology Syllabus

...ASTR 105 Astrobiology Online Professor Annette Lee St. Cloud State University Dept. of Physics, Astronomy and Engineering Science 314 Wick Science Building 720 Fourth Avenue Saint Cloud, MN 56031-4498 Contact Information: Email: aslee@stcloudstate.edu Contacting the instructor: Please post questions related to this course (grades, assignments, drop deadlines, specific homework questions, exams, deadlines, etc.) at the D2L Discussion Board. If you have details you wish to keep private in your question, you may email the instructor at aslee@stcloudstate.edu, but the D2L Discussion Board is the preferred method for asking questions about the course. Office Hours by email as needed daily. Pre-requisites: None, but you will need to do basic arithmetic and algebra in this course. Required Textbooks: 1) Life in the Universe, Bennett, 3rd edition, ISBN-9780321687678. This book is your main instructional resource - be sure to read all of the assigned chapters. ***You do NOT need the access code. You do NOT need the latest edition. Other required materials: Regular and reliable Internet access to complete assignments. Grades: Grades will be determined from scores achieved on TESTS, QUIZZES & ACTIVITIES. The lowest 25 % of Quizzes & Activities will be dropped. Work Percent of Final Grade Best 3 out of 4 Test scores 50% Reading Quizzes (Best 75%) 25% Activity scores (Best 75%) 25% Total 100% The basic grading scale is: 100 –90 A 89 – 80 B 79...

Words: 1177 - Pages: 5

Free Essay

My Work

...AST 201 – Term Project Plan Due: On Portal on February 8, 2016 Final Due Date: March 25, 2016 Late submissions will be penalized 20% per calendar day. Learning Goals 1. To explore an issue in astronomy which is of interest to you personally. 2. To explore a significant discovery or controversy in the history of astronomy. 3. To develop your confidence in your ability to communicate scientific concepts clearly, in non-technical language. Project Description There are two possible project topics and three possible formats. The possible topics are: 1. Important Observation: Identify and explain a candidate for the most important astronomical observation made prior to the year 2000. 2. Controversy: Identify a significant scientific controversy from either the past or the present of astronomy, explain why it was a controversy, and how it was resolved (if it has been). The possible formats for the project are: 1. Podcast-style audio clip 2. Poster 3. Video You will need to choose one topic to research and one format in which to present your results. Project Topics Your project topic must be directly related to AST 201. There are many topics in astronomy that are not directly related to this course. AST 201 focuses on stars, galaxies, black holes, and the universe as a whole. Thus, topics related mainly to planets, exoplanets, and solar system objects (such as moons, asteroids, and comets) would...

Words: 2839 - Pages: 12

Free Essay

Physical

...history, research in the physical sciences has often been limited by our abilities of safely observing and studying the very phenomenon in question. As we make technological progress, we have increasingly more tools to expand our observational capabilities.   Write a three to five (3-5) page paper in which you: Part 1: Procedures in the Physical Sciences: Challenges in Measurements •Identify three (3) specific challenges to making direct measurements in the fields of astronomy, chemistry, physics, or earth science. Describe how scientists have utilized indirect forms of measure to overcome these challenges. 2. Choose two (2) of the most historically influential tools or techniques in the physical sciences.  Explain how these techniques or tools work, and how they helped to advance our understanding of the physical sciences. Part 2: Procedures in the Physical Sciences: A Survey of Safety 3. Choose one (1) hazard associated with research in the physical sciences. Discuss how protective gear or equipment might be used to mitigate the hazard, as well as its efficacy. 4. Describe the ways in which advancements in the physical sciences might impact the safety of the global community. Assess any special considerations for regulating this research.  Part 3: Documentation 5. Use at least four (4) quality resources in this assignment. Note: Wikipedia and similar Websites do not qualify as quality resources. The body of the paper must have in-text citations that correspond...

Words: 425 - Pages: 2

Free Essay

Astronomy Then and Now

...Astronomy: Then and Now Have you ever heard the saying you can’t teach an ole dog new tricks? What about the one where three old dogs teach new tricks? I’m sure you have heard that one, anyone who knows about our solar system can thank the three old dogs. Well, they’re not dogs at all, and at their time they weren’t old but in our time their long gone. Of course, I am speaking about Ptolemy, Copernicus, and Kepler. Funny thing is each one of them challenged and changed their predecessor's work, for the better of course, but we will get to that later. We have these three men to thank for a whole lot of new tricks. To name a few would be, our solar system, the way we form our maps, and we can’t forget the numerous mathematical formulas used to make ideas come to life. In this research paper, we will touch base on the lives of three great astronomers and the tricks they have taught us. We will also see how astronomers of today contribute to our everyday lives. Some say that our first astronomer was a great astronomer. Other say, “Ptolemy was the only great astronomer of Roman Alexandria.” (Brown, 2016) It’s all a matter of opinion, but what we cannot deny was Ptolemy was a great astronomer of his time and today. We do not know much about Ptolemy’s personal life. What we do know about him came from his work. He was born around 85ce in Egypt to a Greek family even though he bore a roman name. To say Ptolemy was diverse is an understatement. He was also diverse in his studies...

Words: 3691 - Pages: 15

Premium Essay

Assignment

...FST-01 ASSIGNMENT BOOKLET Foundation Course in Science and Technology Bachelor’s Degree Programme (BDP) (Valid from 1st July, 2013 to 31st March, 2014) It is compulsory to submit the assignment before filling in the exam form School of Sciences Indira Gandhi National Open University New Delhi (2013-14) Dear Student, We hope, you are familiar with the system of evaluation to be followed for the Bachelor's Degree Programme. At this stage you may probably like to re-read the section on assignments in the Programme Guide that was sent to you after your enrolment. A weightage of 30 percent, as you are aware, has been earmarked for continuous evaluation, which would consist of one tutor-marked assignment for this course. This assignment is based on all Blocks of this course i.e. Block 1-8. Instructions for Formatting Your Assignments Before attempting the assignments, please read the following instructions carefully: 1. On top of the first page of your answer sheet, please write the details exactly in the following format: ENROLMENT NO.: …………………... NAME: …………………........................ ADDRESS: …………………................. ……………………………………… COURSE CODE COURSE TITLE : ………………………………. : ……………………………….. ASSIGNMENT NO. : ………………………………... STUDY CENTRE : ……………………………..… (NAME AND CODE) PLEASE FOLLOW THE ABOVE FORMAT STRICTLY TO FACILITATE EVALUATION AND TO AVOID DELAY. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. Use only foolscap size writing paper (but not of very thin variety) for writing your answers...

Words: 760 - Pages: 4

Premium Essay

Science Essay Topics

...Natural sciences study the physical and natural world and the events that occur in nature using scientific methods, and writing in this field is often used to assess your knowledge. The fields within this area of science include, but are not limited to, the following areas: Astronomy, Atmospheric Science, Biology, Chemistry, Earth Science, Environmental Science, Oceanography The most common writing assignments in the natural sciences are case studies, field reports, lab reports and literature reviews. This field is frequently referred to as “hard science” because of the quantitative methods applied and the heavy use of objective data. A great deal of what defines modern civilization are advances in technology and knowledge gained by investigations in the natural sciences. Statistics and mathematics provide the framework for this field, where quantifiable data and accuracy are essential components. The main goal of the natural science essay is to utilize problem-solving techniques that report results through analysis and observation. Expectations for writing in the natural sciences Whatever your topic when writing in the natural sciences, make sure you understand the assignment before you start. There are characteristics to take into consideration when writing an essay in this field, which include the amount of technical language you use, how much background information is adequate and the type of evidence needed. The composition of this type of written piece requires...

Words: 592 - Pages: 3

Premium Essay

Interactive Learning

...to report to a central location and receive their education at that location. Learning can be difficult in adult education programs when students and educators have employment outside the classroom. For traditional students, interactive learning can supplement classroom learning. Interactive learning utilizes computer software programs to assist students and teachers with lessons, according to HR dictionary. This software allows instructors to assign material for upcoming class discussions, receive assignments, and provide feedback to students. Controlling The Content Students can review course content at their own pace with interactive learning, By working at their own pace, students may prepare for other activities outside of school coursework. It also allows students to move quickly through material they understand, and then slow down for material that is more challenging for them personally. By using interactive learning, students are not delayed byother student's questions. Teachers can add new material to an interactive learning environment when each student is ready for it. Reducing Expenses Interactive learning can reduce the costs of operating a classroom. Educational institutions can save money on rent and lower their utility bills since interactive learning eliminates the need to be in a classroom all the time. This also allows the institution to use their space for classes that can not be taught in an online interactive environment. For teachers and students...

Words: 427 - Pages: 2

Premium Essay

Crtical

...Introduction Question 1: Greek Logic and Metaphysis in Critical Thinking 1.1 Background of Socrates 1.2 Contribution of Socrates 1.3 Background of Plato 1.4 Contribution of Plato Question 2: Islamic Contribution in Critical Thinking 2.1 Background of Ibn Sina (Avicenna) 2.2 Contribution of Ibn Sina (Avicenna) 2.3 Background of Al-Kindi 2.4 Contribution of Al-Kindi Conclusion References Acknowledgement First of all, I would like to express my deepest appreciation to those who helped and provided me the possibility to complete my assignment. First and foremost, a special thanks to my Critical Thinking’s lecturer, Mr. Krishnan for the valuable guidance and advices regarding my coursework. I would like to thank him for his willingness to teach me the parts that I don’t understand and showing me some good examples that are related to my coursework. Secondly, I would like to thank my parents for giving me support in terms of words of encouragement and financial assistance to complete my assignment. Without their encouragement, I won’t be able to finish my assignment in time. Furthermore, I would like to thank the authority of Legenda Education Group for providing me with a good environment and facilities to complete this project. Also, I would like to thank librarian which help me to find books that related to the topic of my project. Last but not least, special thanks to my friends, for helping me to complete my assignment. They gave...

Words: 4004 - Pages: 17

Premium Essay

Social Psychology Definition Paper

...does. It just seems to be human nature to ask such questions and to try to discover more about the complexity of human actions and causes. Of course, there are many perspectives in the field of psychology that attempt to address these significant questions. For instance, biopsychology considers important factors including one’s brain, genetic predisposition, and many others when addressing behavior. However, social psychology, even though it agrees with other branches in psychology, does focus on different aspects when seeking these kinds of conclusions. Social psychology centers their attention on understanding human actions such as what led to the cruelty of killing millions of people during War II. Why will one always help him or herself first, before helping others? Why do others matter more when making decisions? Social psychology is essential not only to the field of psychology but also to every individual because it provides answers to questions one seeks about him or herself and others. However, social psychology does more than provide answers to these few questions, as these merely touch the surface of social psychology’s focus (Myers, 2010). Definition of Social Psychology Social psychology is a science just like many other fields including astronomy, psychology, biology, sociology, and psychology. A much clearer distinction can be made however, when they are further divided. For instance, astronomy and biology are parts of natural science whereas sociology...

Words: 1790 - Pages: 8

Premium Essay

Itsc

...Learning Objectives After completing this chapter, you will be able to: 1. Define operating system. 2. Define enhancements. 3. Explain the function and purpose of OS version numbers. 4. List some of the types of system configurations. 5. Explain the need and procedure for booting the system. 6. Explain the function of disk files. 7. Explain the function of and rules for file specifications. 8. List and explain the importance of the two types of computer files. 9. Describe the function and purpose of commands. 10. Compare and contrast internal and external commands. 11. Explain the function and purpose of the DIR, VER, and CLS commands. 12. Explain the purpose of and the procedure for using the DATE and TIME commands. 13. Explain the legal and ethical ramifications of copying disks that were not purchased. 14. Explain the purpose and function of the DISKCOPY command. 15. Explain the necessary steps to end a work session. Student Outcomes 1. Identify your system configuration. 2. Boot the system. 3. Use the DIR command to display the files on the screen. 4. Use the VER command to determine which version of Windows is being used. 5. Use the CLS command to clear the screen. 6. Use the DATE and TIME commands to set or change the date and time on the computer. 7. Make a copy of a disk. 8. End a computer work session. Chapter Overview Most people who use computers are really interested in application software. They want programs that are easy to use and that help them solve specific...

Words: 73166 - Pages: 293

Free Essay

Physics

...Assignment in Physics... 1. Definition of Science, Major branches of science 2. Scientific Method 3. Definition of Physics and its major branches 4. Notable Physicist and their contribution 5. Importance of Physics in our everyday life and in our society. (Write the references) Short bond paper, written or computerized (font: Times New Roman/font size: 12) Reading assign. Measurement Diff. system of measurement fundamentals and derive quantities scientific notation rules in significant figures conversion of units http://www.hep.man.ac.uk/babarph/babarphysics/physicists.html ) I.1 Science The intellectual and practical activity encompassing the systematic study of the structure and behaviour of the physical and natural world through observation and experiment. I.2 The Branches of Science The Physical Sciences * Physics: The study of matter and energy and the interactions between them. Physicists study such subjects as gravity, light, and time. Albert Einstein, a famous physicist, developed the Theory of Relativity. * Chemistry: The science that deals with the composition, properties, reactions, and the structure of matter. The chemist Louis Pasteur, for example, discovered pasteurization, which is the process of heating liquids such as milk and orange juice to kill harmful germs. * Astronomy: The study of the universe beyond the Earth's atmosphere. The Earth Sciences * Geology: The science of the origin, history, and structure...

Words: 1431 - Pages: 6

Premium Essay

Controlling the Content

...personally. By using interactive learning, students are not delayed byother student's questions. Teachers can add new material to an interactive learning environment when each student is ready for it. Read more: What Are the Benefits of Interactive Learning? | eHow.com http://www.ehow.com/list_6468331_benefits-interactive-learning_.html#ixzz1nML8Oo7u Interactive learning can reduce the costs of operating a classroom. Educational institutions can save money on rent and lower their utility bills since interactive learning eliminates the need to be in a classroom all the time. This also allows the institution to use their space for classes that can not be taught in an online interactive environment. For teachers and students, transportation costs are eliminated. Students and teachers can meet online during inclement weather because students do not have to travel. Read more: What Are the Benefits of Interactive Learning? | eHow.com http://www.ehow.com/list_6468331_benefits-interactive-learning_.html#ixzz1nMLBlaCf n an interactive learning environment, whiteboards or message boards are set up for the classroom online. These message boards can include specific conversation threads set up by the instructor relating to the week's required reading. It can also be used for students to post questions or participate in discussion groups. Students can work together and answer eachother's questions no matter their location, even when students...

Words: 859 - Pages: 4

Premium Essay

Astr 122

...ASTR 122 05/13/2013 Assignment #3 951131748 WangJae Lee Astronomy 122 Distance Education Third Homework Assignment 1. Explain why measuring parallax distances for only the brightest appearing stars in the sky would give you a biased luminosity scale and an unrepresentative sample of stars. -The stellar parallax measures the relative distances from stars to different positions of the Earth in order to measure luminosity. It is done by using distant stars as a fixed reference system so that if a star is observed in respect to the distant stars today, and then measured again in six months, a small shift in movement will be recorded. It is absolutely necessary for there to be “distant stars” or less bright stars as a frame of reference otherwise the angle measurements would have nothing to compare against. Thus, it creates a biased scale of recorded luminosity. 2. Explain the overall concept of pressure support (against gravity) in stars and why stars are unstable if they are not generating energy in their cores. -The concept of pressure support can be explained through the internal gas pressure. The internal gas pressure is attempting to expand and dissipate our ball of gas, while the self-gravity of the gas (due to its mass) is trying to collapse the ball. As the gas gets hotter, the internal gas pressure increases. Then, it reaches a point of stabilization between gravity and pressure support. -Stars are unstable if they are not generating energy in their cores because...

Words: 855 - Pages: 4

Free Essay

Happiness

...Transcript Akeem Saunders Kaplan University HU300 Arts and Humanities Laurie Smart-Pottle 21st September, 2013 What Does Happiness Mean? The first person I choose to interview is Ms. J.Roker. She is between the ages of 30- 40 years-old and is a volunteer at the Exuma Land and Sea Park here in the Bahamas. She loves working for non-profit organizations especially those which gives back to the community and protects the environment. She has been a foreign volunteer for two years. Being enlisted in the military I am required to be deploy to various sub bases within and without the Commonwealth of The Bahamas. Thus, my interview took place on Walderick Wells, a Cay located in the Exuma Land and Sea Park. I had known Ms. Roker, little under two weeks and was intrigue as to why she choose the Bahamas to work instead of America. Every morning she would open the park office and we would start a casual conservation. Her views on life were astounding and to see how her dog Grace interacts with her is just amazing. She always seemed very happy whenever I saw her and always was giving. When I think of what happiness looks like I always think of her. My second choice is Mr. D Bonaby. He is between the ages of 40-50 years and is an active member in the military. He has been deployed to the same sub base as me and he has been my superior for the past 10 years. He is a welder in the military and hopes to open his welding business when he retires from...

Words: 2118 - Pages: 9