MN-GM-GEOSPACE

Specialisation Module: Space Physics
Identification number MN-GM- GEOSPACE		Workload 180 h	Credits 6	Term 1st - 3rd Semester	Offered Every year	Start SuSe	Duration 1 semester
1	Course types a) Lecture b) Exercise			Contact time 45 h 30 h		Private study 45 h 60 h
2	Module objectives and skills to be acquired Understanding the space environment around the earth, other planetary bodies and the solar wind. Understanding basic properties of space plasmas including their mathematical/physical descriptions. The acquired skills are the applications of mathematical/physical tools from statistical mechanics and fluid dynamics as applied to plasmas. Derivations of the plasma descriptions from first principles. Non-specific skills: Critical assessment of scientific knowledge.
3	Module content Introduction into space plasmas Single particle dynamics Kinetic theory (Boltzmann and Vlasow equation) Derivation of magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) equations Properties of MHD fluids Waves in plasmas Shocks and discontinuities Instabilities Magnetospheres, solar wind, aurorae Literature: Baumjohann & Treumann, Basic Space Plasma Physics, Imperial College Press Chen, Introduction to Plasma Physics and Controlled Fusion, Plenum Press. Kivelson & Russell, Introduction to Space Physics, Cambridge Univ. Press. Treumann & Baumjohann, Advanced Space Plasma Physics, Imperial College Press.
4	Teaching methods Lectures Exercises: The exercises will pick up topics from the lectures and give the students the opportunity to deepen their understanding of the lecture content by solving typical problems in Spase Physics
5	Prerequisites (for the module) Formal: None. The content of the course requires the undergraduate knowledge of mathematics, physics, especially classical mechanics, electro-magnetism, basics of statistical mechanics
6	Type of examination At the beginning of the lecture-free period, there is a 120 to 180-minute written examination, the content of which is the material from the lecture and exercises. Successful completion of the exercises is required for admission to the examination; for this, the acquisition of 50% of the points to be achieved is sufficient. A repeat examination is offered before or at the beginning of the following semester. The examination grade is the module grade. In the case of two passed examinations (see § 20 paragraph 10 examination regulations), the better grade is the module grade.
7	Credits awarded The module is passed, and the credit points will be awarded, if the written examination is passed.
8	Compatibility with other curricula Suitable as an elective course for physics students.
9	Proportion of final grade Weight of the module grade in the overall grade: 6/150 (4 %)
10	Module coordinator Joachim Saur
11	Further information Version: 2023-03-31