What This Document Is
This is a computer exercise designed for students enrolled in Earth Catastrophes (EART 2) at the University of California, Santa Cruz. It focuses on the dynamic processes affecting the outer solar system, specifically the tidal evolution of satellites orbiting planets. The exercise requires students to utilize a provided program to model and analyze orbital changes over time, culminating in a written report detailing their findings. It’s a practical application of theoretical concepts discussed in the course.
Why This Document Matters
This exercise is crucial for students seeking a deeper understanding of orbital mechanics and their influence on the thermal and geological history of planetary satellites. It’s particularly valuable for those interested in planetary science, astrobiology, or related fields. Students will benefit from working through this exercise as they prepare for their final grade, which is partially based on the quality of their submitted write-up. This assignment will help solidify understanding of complex systems and analytical skills.
Topics Covered
* Tidal forces and their impact on satellite orbits
* Orbital evolution – semi-major axis and eccentricity changes
* Resonances between satellites and their consequences
* Thermal evolution of planetary bodies
* Application of computational modeling to planetary science
* Interpretation of geological and impact cratering data
* Linux/Unix operating system basics (for program execution)
What This Document Provides
* Detailed instructions for a computer-based modeling exercise.
* A list of guiding questions to focus analysis and write-up.
* An overview of the expected format and length of the student write-up.
* A foundational appendix offering a practical guide to navigating and utilizing the Linux/Unix operating system.
* Contextual information linking the exercise to broader concepts in planetary science.
