Biology in Earth Systems and Physical Science CHEMISTRY OR PHYSICS
Course description
40121 / 40122 ASTROPHYSICS
Grade Level: 11,12 Length: Yearlong (10 credits) UC/CSU Subject Area: D
MBUSD District Graduation Requirement: Science
Prerequisite(s): Biology in Earth Systems and Physical Science (Chemistry or Physics)
Department Recommendation(s): None
Textbook: Explorations: An Introduction to Astronomy, McGraw Hill, ISBN: 978-0-07-669197-5
Novel: The Three Body Problem, Cixin Liu
Expectations: Requires students to participate in on campus nighttime laboratory sessions each quarter and as special events occur, complete activities utilizing real astronomical data, research and present on current discoveries in the field, and think critically and engage in discussions about astronomy-related ethics and issues.
Course Description: This course is designed to be a stand-alone class studying the astronomical universe and our place in it. Astrophysics applies the accepted rules and laws of physics and chemistry to explain the nature of our solar system, galaxy, interstellar medium and macro features of our universe and the objects contained within it. Emphasis will center on the use of investigative physics tools including the role of gravity, electromagnetism, particle/nuclear interactions and Einsteinium relativity and their foundations throughout the cosmos. Astronomical material included will focus on our earth as a planet, conditions and mechanics of our solar system, measurement systems to stretch our understanding throughout the familiar areas of the Milky Way Galaxy and move outward to our present day understanding of the large-scale features and theories of cosmology. This is a lab-centered class where you will explore your own observational telescopic data as well as the latest research from professional sources to unravel the latest theories on how the universe works.