NNMA13002U Origin and Evolution of the Solar System

Volume 2013/2014
Content

Nucleosynthesis in Big Bang, Supernovae and stars; Aspects of the early Solar System evolution based on: 1) Chronology using short- and long-lived isotopes such as 41Ca-41K, 26Al-26Mg and 207Pb-206Pb, 2) Astronomical observations of stellar systems and 3) Models of the physical evolution of the early Solar System; primitive meteorites: their origin and formation of their components. Differentiated meteorites from core, mantle and crust of fully or partially molten asteroids: thermal and chronological evolution of the parent bodies; links between meteorites and their parent asteroids; origin and evolution of the Earth-Moon system; meteorites from the Moon; the terrestrial planets; meteorites from Mars; the outer planets and their moons.

Learning Outcome

Knowledge

  • Star formation
  • Element synthesis in stars
  • The sequence of events leading to the formation of our Solar System
  • Origin and early evolution of the Solar System
  • Origin and early evolution of Planets
  • Origin of the Moon
  • Asteroids and their connection to meteorites
  • Main types of meteorites and their relevance for understanding the origin of the Solar System
  • Short and long-lived chronometers such as 41Ca-41K, 26Al-26Mg and U-Pb

Skills

Ability to read and understand Planetary Science papers

Competences

An understanding of the theories and observations supporting our current understanding of how the Solar System formed. In particular, the students should be able to relate the bulk properties of our own planet to the processes that controlled them, when the Earth formed. Being able to understand the significance of new data for our understanding of the origin and evolution of the Solar System.

Knowledge of basic concepts of geology is recommended.
Lectures
The course may be taken as an optional course on both the bachelor and the master part. However, it is recommended that you take it in the 3rd year of the bachelor part.
  • Category
  • Hours
  • Exam
  • 30
  • Lectures
  • 42
  • Practical exercises
  • 6
  • Preparation
  • 78
  • Project work
  • 50
  • Total
  • 206
Credit
7,5 ECTS
Type of assessment
Written assignment
Oral examination, 30 minutes
The written assignment weighs 20% of the final grade.
The oral exam is without preparation time and weighs 80% of the final grade.
Aid
Without aids
Marking scale
7-point grading scale
Censorship form
External censorship
Criteria for exam assesment

See learning outcome