Astrochemistry and Planetary Atmospheres (F1400)
Astrochemistry and Planetary Atmospheres
Module F1400
Module details for 2025/26.
15 credits
FHEQ Level 6
Module Outline
This module will provide an overview of the chemistry that governs the observation, formation and transformation of molecules in various astronomical environments including stars, comets and planetary atmospheres. It will explore how spectroscopy can be used to identify molecules in astronomical environments; the chemistry that governs the formation and destruction of these molecules in the gas and solid phase in astronomical environments; the chemistry in a broad range of physical conditions that governs the behaviour of Earth’s atmosphere and that of other planets; laboratory techniques that can be used to investigate astrochemical and atmospheric processes.
Module learning outcomes
Describe the effects of the astronomical environment and its variables on chemical processes and systems
Apply detailed knowledge of chemical kinetics in extreme environments to solve problems related to the chemistry of astronomical and planetary environments
Deploy accurately spectroscopic techniques to understand and describe in detail the chemical composition of various planetary and astronomical environments
Apply a knowledge of chemistry in extreme environments to describe, explain and predict chemical processes in astronomical and planetary environments
| Type | Timing | Weighting |
|---|---|---|
| Unseen Examination | Semester 2 Assessment | 70.00% |
| Coursework | 30.00% | |
| Coursework components. Weighted as shown below. | ||
| Essay | T2 Week 8 | 100.00% |
Timing
Submission deadlines may vary for different types of assignment/groups of students.
Weighting
Coursework components (if listed) total 100% of the overall coursework weighting value.
| Term | Method | Duration | Week pattern |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spring Semester | Lecture | 1 hour | 22222222222 |
| Spring Semester | Workshop | 1 hour | 01111111111 |
How to read the week pattern
The numbers indicate the weeks of the term and how many events take place each week.
Prof Wendy Brown
Convenor, Assess convenor
/profiles/316874
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