LARTS 379 Topics in Science: Our Cosmic Origins
This course will examine the rich history of the Universe, from a single event in the depths of space to the creation of atoms and molecules, from the formation of stars and planets to the emergence of life on Earth. We will chronicle how the first light atoms formed stars and how heavier atoms were cooked in stars and scattered in space, creating dust grains and organic molecules. We will explore how Earth was assembled from the remnants of stars and gain an understanding of Earth in its broadest context, as well as a greater appreciation of its rare ability to sustain life over geologic time. The recent discoveries of dark energy and dark matter, hydrothermal vents at ocean ridges, and the importance of climate change will be examined by interweaving physics, astronomy, chemistry, geology, and biology. This course will appeal to any student who has ever looked at the sky and wondered how we got here.