ASTR 220

I. Course Title: Introduction to Astrophysics (GE)

II. Course Number: ASTR 220

III. Credit Hours: 3 credits 

IV. Prerequisites: MATH 138 or MATH 168 or a passing score on a placement test approved by the department.

V. Course Description: 

An algebra-based introduction to the fundamental methods used in astrophysics to investigate the cosmos. Lectures provide a general overview of the major disciplines found in astronomy and explore the ongoing developments in the field.

Note(s): General Education and Scientific and Quantitative Reasoning designated course. Students cannot receive credit for ASTR 220 if they have already received credit for ASTR 111, ASTR 112, or ASTR 120.

VI. Detailed Description of Content of the Course:

• The Daily and Annular Motion of Celestial Bodies in the Sky
• Kepler’s Law of Planetary Motion
• Newton’s Law of Gravity
• Properties of Light and 
•         i. Wave and Particle Characteristic of Light
•         ii. Spectral Line formation
•         iii. Doppler Effect
•         iv. Blackbodies
• Telescope Optics (Optional)
• Formation and Classification of the Solar System
• Exoplanet Detection (Optional)
• Stellar Evolution
• Formation and Classification of Galaxies 
• Cosmic Distance Ladder
• Hubble’s Law
• Cosmic Microwave Background
• Astrobiology (Optional)

VI. Detailed Description of Conduct of Course:

This algebra-based course will deliver content mainly by lecture and does not contain a lab component. Time in class will be set aside for students to practice solving problems and working through worksheets that test for conceptual understanding of the course material.

VII. Goals and Objectives of the Course:

1. Students will be able to recognize the empirical nature of the scientific method and analyze data.
2. Students will be able to identify scientific problems in astronomy and apply the scientific method to solve these problems.
3. Students will be able to extend their problem-solving skills and logical analysis to a variety of situations. 
4. Students will be able to relate the basic principles of science to the larger universe.

VIII. Assessment Measures:

Student’s learning will be formally assessed with the use of quizzes, homework, mid-term exams, and final exam. Worksheets and class discussions will be employed as in-class activities to promote active learning in the classroom and to assess student’s progress informally.

Review and Approval

August 2020

March 01, 2021