Solar System Evolution - Hardcover

Taylor, Stuart Ross

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 0521372127 ISBN 13: 9780521372121

Publisher: Cambridge University Press, 1992

Synopsis

This book describes the origin and evolution of the solar system, with an emphasis on interpretation rather than description. Starting with the Big Bang 15–20 billion years ago, it traces the evolution of the solar system from the separation of a disk of gas and dust, the solar nebula, 4.7 billion years ago. The problems of the formation of the Sun and the planets are considered beginning with Jupiter and the other gas giants, and ending with the formation of the Earth, the other rocky inner planets and the Moon. All planets, satellites and rings are different and random encounters have played a major role in the evolution of the system: the Moon is the product of a chance collision. The author concludes that the solar system is probably unique; other planetary systems may be common, but will probably not resemble ours either in numbers or types of planets.

About this title

Review

' ... the book should serve as an excellent reference; it succinctly summarizes evidence and arguments.' Nature

' ... an invaluable guide to current thinking on the Solar System evolution.' Journal of the British Astronomical Association

' ... few finer introductions than this book.' The Times Higher Education Supplement

'S. Ross Taylor has written a clear and comprehensive account of the orgin and evolution of the solar system ... frequent summaries are useful, and provide ready access to information for readers who simply wish to dip into the book. I highly recommend this book to all students of planetary science.' Chemical Geology

' ... I hope the book reaches many students embarking on a career in geochemistry or, perhaps more important, provides the basis for some courses presented by their teachers.' The Observatory

Book Description

This book describes the origin and evolution of the solar system, with an emphasis on interpretation rather than description. Starting with the Big Bang 15–20 billion years ago, it traces the evolution of the solar system from the separation of a disk of gas and dust, the solar nebula, 4.7 billion years ago.

Edition details

• Publisher: Cambridge University Press
• Publication date: 1992
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0521372127
• ISBN 13: 9780521372121
• Binding: Hardcover
• Number of pages: 325