GEOS 217T(F) Planetary Geology (Same as Astronomy 217T) (W)
The diversity of our solar system is incredible. No two plants are exactly alike,
and as we acquire more data and higher-resolution images, our sense of wonder
grows. However, we can't hike around and hammer rocks on Venus or Titan, so
we have to infer composition, form, texture and process from remotely-captured
images and sparse chemical and spectral data. This leaves plenty of room for
interpretation and hypothesising about geological processes on other bodies.
Through reading recent research papers we will examine a number of topics,
including the possible Late Heavy Bombardment of the moon, tectonics on Venus, water on Mars, hidden oceans on Europa, and the methane weather cycle
on Titan.
Evaluation will be based on six 2500-word papers, discussion, and critical
analysis. There will be a strong focus on polished writing and argument, and
papers will be thoroughly edited by the professor for style, grammar and syntax.
Students will improve their writing by integrating into successive papers the
editorial comments they receive, and also by editing the writing of their tutorial
partners.
Prerequisites: one Geosciences course, or permission of instructor. Enrollment
limit: 10 (expected: 10). Preference given to sophomores.