Exploring the Planets

by Christiansen, Eric H.; Hamblin, Kenneth W.

• ISBN13: 9780023224218
• ISBN10: 0023224215
• Edition: 2nd
• Format: Hardcover
• Copyright: 1995-01-01
• Publisher: Pearson College Div

Summary

Designed for freshman/sophomore level planetary geology and solar system courses in geology departments and solar system courses in astronomy departments. Fully revised and updated, Exploring the Planets presents a thorough, systematic examination of planets, moons, asteroids and comets in our solar system. Treating each body in-depth and with great detail, it begins with discussion of small bodies and moves towards larger bodies as it emphasizes the roles of heat and tectonics in planetary evolution. The outer planets are discussed in order outward from the sun to emphasize the role distance from the sun plays in determining composition. Soundly organized around important themes, this text provides a theoretically based examination that facilitates comparative study of bodies and is accessible to non- specialists.

Table of Contents

1. The Solar System.
2. Fundamentals of Planetary Science.
3. Meteorites and Asteroids.
4. The Moon.
5. Mercury.
6. Mars.
7. Venus.
8. Earth.
9. The Jupiter System.
10. The Saturn System.
11. The Uranus System.
12. The Neptune System.
13. Pluto and Charon.
14. Comets.
15. Comparisons of the Planets.
Glossary.
Illustration Credits.
Index.