Extensive use of computer simulation, visual aids and demonstrations to illustrate the ideas of astronomy. Minimal mathematical level required. Students who have completed or who are enrolled in Physics 116 may not enroll in Physics 115. Discovering The Universe , 4th ed. Topics covered include the celestial coordinate system, celestial mechanics, light and telescopes, the solar system, the sun, stellar evolution, black holes, galaxies, and cosmology.
Minimal mathematics is used.
The final grade is based on the laboratory, three in-class exams, and a final comprehensive exam. An optional paper may be written to replace one of the in-class exams. There will be one trip to the Fernbank Planetarium. Students must register for lab separately from the lecture. Students who have completed or who are enrolled in Physics 115 may not enroll in Physics 116.