Planetary Interiors

• Credit value: 15 credits at Level 6
• Convenor: Professor Hilary Downes
• Assessment: two quizzes (15% each), a project proposal (20%), 1200-word technical report (25%) and poster presentation (25%)

In this module we provide an overview of the methods used to remotely sound the interiors of distant planets by combining observations of their spin, gravity and magnetism with a wealth of complementary information in the form of comet and meteorite mineralogy and laboratory-based studies of minerals under extreme conditions.

You will be given a descriptive overview of the mathematical and physical concepts, providing the basis for future analytical study or research. The focus of the coursework assessment will be on a written discussion of contemporary research in each of the three main course themes: observations, experiments and modelling.

Indicative syllabus

Observational constraints

• Mineralogy of comets, asteroids and meteorites as an insight into planetary composition
• Use of seismic waves to probe planetary interiors
• Application of gravity and planetary spin
• Application of planetary magnetism

Matter under extreme conditions

• Laboratory methods to learn about materials under planetary conditions
• Properties of silicate rocks (mantles)
• Properties of metallic alloys (cores)
• Properties of planetary ices

Planetary evolution

• Sources of heat - origins of differences between otherwise similar planetary bodies
• Heat transport
• Exoplanets - a universe of potentially weird objects

By the end of this module, you will be able to:

• understand the physical and mathematical basis for remote sensing of planetary interiors as well as the range of laboratory techniques and computer models required to interpret these data
• synthesise diverse pieces of information into a coherent story in the context of lab- and computer-based testing of observationally formulated hypotheses
• appreciate the limitations inherent in various techniques and be aware of overinterpretation or speculation in the literature
• make an oral presentation that collates diverse information into a succinct and interesting narrative and field questions from an audience.