Course unit details:
Exoplanets
Course unit fact file
| Unit code |
PHYS20792 |
| Credit rating |
10 |
| Unit level |
Level 2 |
| Teaching period(s) |
Semester 2 |
| Available as a free choice unit? |
No |
Overview
Understanding of exoplanetary systems, including how they are detected and ideas on their formation and habitability.
Pre/co-requisites
| Unit title |
Unit code |
Requirement type |
Description |
| Introduction to Astrophysics and Cosmology |
PHYS10191 |
Pre-Requisite |
Compulsory |
Aims
To gain an understanding of exoplanetary systems, including how they are detected and ideas on their formation and habitability.
Learning outcomes
ILO 1 - Outline the variety of methods used to detect exoplanets
ILO 2 - Evaluate exoplanet detection probabilities for different methods and compare the efficacy of different detection techniques
ILO 3 - Explain the properties of known exoplanetary systems in the context of detection biases
ILO 4 - Summarize leading planet formation theories and explain dynamical effects such as planet migration
ILO 5 - Explain how observations constrain exoplanetary interior and atmosphere models
ILO 6 - Discuss current ideas about planetary habitability
Assessment methods
| Method |
Weight |
| Written exam |
100% |
Feedback methods
Feedback will be given via Blackboard.
Recommended reading
Cassan, P., Guillot, T., Quirrenbach, A. Extrasolar Planets (Saas-Fee Advanced Course 31) (Springer 2006), ISBN: 978-3-540-31470-7
Perryman, M. The Exoplanet Handbook (CUP 2011), ISBN-10: 0521765595
Study hours
| Scheduled activity hours |
| Lectures |
24 |
| Independent study hours |
| Independent study |
76 |
Teaching staff
| Staff member |
Role |
| Christopher Conselice |
Unit coordinator |
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