PX456-15 Solar and Space Physics
Introductory description
This module starts by introducing a hydrodynamic model of the Sun, which treats the solar matter as a fluid. It discusses how this theory, called magnetohydrodynamics, is used to model and understand phenomena like sunspots, coronal loops, prominences, solar flares, coronal mass ejections and space weather. The Sun also emits a stream of energetic charged particles in what is called the solar wind. The module will look at how the solar wind interacts with the Earth and other planets in the Solar System.
Module aims
To review the physics underlying the structure and the dynamics of the Sun using magnetohydrodynamics. It should discuss its ejections including the solar wind and how this interacts with planets in the Solar System.
Outline syllabus
This is an indicative module outline only to give an indication of the sort of topics that may be covered. Actual sessions held may differ.
Introduction to the Sun, magnetohydrodynamics (MHD), magnetostatic equilibria, coronal loops, potential and force-free magnetic fields, application to prominences, magnetic reconnection, MHD coronal waves, helioseismology;
Structure of the solar wind, Parker solution, Parker spirals and co-rotating interaction regions, Heliosphere and heliopause;
Transients in the solar wind, coronal mass ejections, MHD shocks, Turbulence;
Earth’s magnetosphere, structure, co-rotating region: plasmasphere, radiation belts; Advective region: plasmapause, magnetotail, Dungey cycle; Substorms, aurora, ionosphere, concepts of space weather;
Comparative solar wind/planet interaction: Earth, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, outlook beyond the solar system
Learning outcomes
By the end of the module, students should be able to:
- Explain structure of the Sun and the main features and phenomena observed on the solar surface and in the solar atmosphere
- Describe the physical processes at work in the Sun
- Describe the dynamic processes operating in the Sun, in terms of MHD
- Explain the solar wind and its interactions with planets in the Solar System
Indicative reading list
View reading list on Talis Aspire
Subject specific skills
Knowledge of mathematics and physics. Skills in modelling, reasoning, thinking.
Transferable skills
Analytical, communication, problem-solving, self-study
Study time
Type | Required |
---|---|
Lectures | 30 sessions of 1 hour (20%) |
Private study | 120 hours (80%) |
Total | 150 hours |
Private study description
Working through lecture notes, solving problems, wider reading, discussing with others taking the module, revising for exam, practising on past exam papers
Costs
No further costs have been identified for this module.
You must pass all assessment components to pass the module.
Assessment group B
Weighting | Study time | |
---|---|---|
Solar and Space Physics | 100% | |
Answer 3 questions
|
Feedback on assessment
Personal tutor, group feedback
Courses
This module is Optional for:
- Year 4 of UPXA-F303 Undergraduate Physics (MPhys)
This module is Option list B for:
-
UPXA-FG31 Undergraduate Mathematics and Physics (MMathPhys)
- Year 4 of FG31 Mathematics and Physics (MMathPhys)
- Year 4 of FG31 Mathematics and Physics (MMathPhys)