Fundamental Planetary Science: Physics, Chemistry and Habitability - Softcover

Lissauer, Jack J.; De Pater, Imke

Softcover

ISBN 10: 052161855X ISBN 13: 9780521618557

Publisher: Cambridge University Press, 2013

Synopsis

A quantitative introduction to the Solar System and planetary systems science for advanced undergraduate students, this engaging new textbook explains the wide variety of physical, chemical and geological processes that govern the motions and properties of planets. The authors provide an overview of our current knowledge and discuss some of the unanswered questions at the forefront of research in planetary science and astrobiology today. They combine knowledge of the Solar System and the properties of extrasolar planets with astrophysical observations of ongoing star and planet formation, offering a comprehensive model for understanding the origin of planetary systems. The book concludes with an introduction to the fundamental properties of living organisms and the relationship that life has to its host planet. With more than 200 exercises to help students learn how to apply the concepts covered, this textbook is ideal for a one-semester or two-quarter course for undergraduate students.

About this title

Review

'Drawing most of its material from the authors' excellent graduate text, Lissauer and de Pater's Fundamental Planetary Science is smartly reorganized to focus on the essentials. The authors take great care to make the text both comprehensive and accessible to undergraduates with interesting new chapters on physics and life, more detailed derivations, additional figures, and a concluding list of key concepts for every chapter. Sure to be welcomed by the Solar System community and destined to become a classic, the book is my new top choice for serious students of planetary science.' Douglas Hamilton, University of Maryland

'I recommend Lissauer and de Pater's latest book for advanced undergraduate classes in planetary sciences. This long-awaited textbook is clear and comprehensive. It covers the latest findings and issues in planetary science, with abundant figures and many useful exercises. The authors maintain high standards throughout. I plan to use this book as the main text for my 'Planets, Moons and Rings' course.' Larry W. Esposito, University of Colorado

'Fundamental Planetary Science provides a comprehensive treatment of our Solar System plus a concise overview of the underlying physical basis. Lissauer and de Pater will be my textbook of choice for advanced undergraduate planetary science courses.' Eric B. Ford, University of Florida

'The book is fun to read. It is nicely written, and it contains many wonderful images and carefully prepared diagrams. Lecturers will appreciate that many figures are available for download on the book website, so that they can be used for teaching classes on the subject. I warmly recommend this book to anyone interested in the fascinating and multidisciplinary subject of planetary science.' Thomas Peters, Contemporary Physics

Book Description

A quantitative introduction to the Solar System and planetary systems science for advanced undergraduate students, this engaging new textbook explains the wide variety of physical, chemical and geological processes that govern the motions and properties of planets, and how these processes affect the development of life.

Edition details

• Publisher: Cambridge University Press
• Publication date: 2013
• ISBN 10: 052161855X
• ISBN 13: 9780521618557
• Binding: Paperback
• Language: English
• Edition number: 1
• Number of pages: 616