Understanding the Universe An Inquiry Approach to Astronomy and the Nature of Scientific Research

About this book

A student-active introduction to astronomy, emphasizing inquiry learning so students will clearly understand our universe and the scientific method. Within-text and end-of-chapter questions check understanding of concepts and require the student to think critically through astronomy-based problems. 'Nature of Science' and 'Detectives on the Case' sections in each chapter encourage students to take on the role of a scientist and so develop an understanding of how scientific progress is made, leading students through a chain of arguments of forming and testing hypotheses, in the context of specific astronomical topics. By focusing on key topics, the student is able to develop a deeper understanding of the core areas of astronomy. Math is used to make intuitive points and kept simple by using a two-track system to first describe the logic of the calculation followed by a more detailed example. Simple illustrations support the text and step students through concepts visually.

Contents

Part I. Steps to Astronomy
1. The sky
2. The origins of astronomy
3. Gravity and orbits
4. Light
5. The astronomers' tools: telescopes and space probes

Part II. The Solar System
6. Introducing the Solar System
7. The inner Solar System
8. The outer Solar System
9. Smaller bodies in the Solar System
10. Planets beyond the Solar System

Part III. Stars
11. Our Sun
12. A census of stars
13. The formation of stars and planets
14. Stellar structure
15. Stellar evolution and death

Part IV. Galaxies and the Universe
16. The Milky Way galaxy
17. Galaxies
18. Cosmology
19. Life in the Universe

Index

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