MPhys Physics with Theoretical Physics

Exoplanets refer to planets that orbit stars other than the Sun. In a relatively short time, the study of exoplanets has become a major area of modern astrophysics. This unit will introduce students to planet orbital elements, Kepler's laws of planetary motion, and the mathematics of orbital motion. Our Solar System will provide context for distinguishing between rocky, ice giant and gas giant planetary compositions. We will cover exoplanet detection techniques such as direct detection, transit, radial velocity, astrometry and microlensing. We will explore techniques for determining atmospheric and bulk internal exoplanet composition, along with recent results from telescopes such as the James Webb Space Telescope. Concepts such as planet equilibrium temperature, the habitable zone and the runaway greenhouse effect will be explored within the context of planet habitability. We will also detail observations of newly forming planetary systems and discuss leading theories of planet formation.

The unit aims to provide an understanding of exoplanetary systems, including the orbits of planets, our Solar System as context, methods used to detect exoplanets, planet interior structure and atmosphere, planet habitability and planet formation.

ILO 1

Understand Kepler’s laws of planetary motion and how these link to conservation of angular momentum. Perform calculations concerning planetary orbits.

ILO 2

Convey the principles behind different methods that are used to detect exoplanets.  

ILO 3

Perform calculations involving the physical properties of planets derived from different detection techniques.

ILO 4

Understand the distinction between rocky, ice giant and gas giant planet compositions.  

ILO 5

Make calculations concerning planet temperature and habitability.

ILO 6

Describe key observations and concepts concerning planet formation. Be able to relate these to the architecture of our own Solar System.

       1. Overview of the Solar System

General description and inventory. Coordinates and time keeping. Date & time in the solar system

       2. Gravity

Kepler's laws; energy; orbits; space travel; tides.

       3. The Sun

Plasma and magnetism; nuclear energy and solar neutrinos; helioseismology.

       4. Planetary atmospheres

Origins; equilibrium temperatures; pressure and temperature profiles; atmospheric escape; composition; clouds; climate. 

       5. Planetary surfaces

Impact craters.  Isotope dating. 

       6. Planetary interiors

Moments of inertia; seismology; volcanoes & plate tectonics; heating & cooling; magnetic fields. 

       7. The formation of the solar system

Interstellar origins; planet formation; future evolution.

Two one hour, live in-person lectures per week where the core material with examples will be delivered. The recordings of these lectures will be on the course online page. The lectures are accompanied by copies of the slides and notes.

A Piazza discussion forum is also provided where students can ask questions with answers provided by other students and the unit lead. 

Students will receive feedback on a number of optional problem sheets.There will also be weekly quizzes to provide feedback on understanding.

Selected sections of:

The Exoplanet Handbook, 2nd Ed (2018), M. Perryman, CUP, ISBN : 9781108419772

Available online in the University of Manchester Library