Figure 1:  |
 Read
These Notes:
In objective
5, you studied the solar nebular hypothesis. During the later stages in
the formation of the solar system, large amounts of debris impacted the
terrestrial planets. Evidence for impacts by meteorites and comets created
cratered surfaces on the early planets. Comets are thought to have provided
volatile materials to the planets. These volatile materials possible played
a significant role in the evolution of planetary atmospheres or supplying
water and other materials to the surface of the ocean. In determining
the role that extra-terrestrial processes may have played, you might ask
yourself:
- Are craters
present? Are the craters of volcanic or impact in origin?
- What is
the composition of the atmosphere? Are the components of the planet's
atmosphere native or foreign (extra-terrestrial) to the planet?
Homework
Questions: Answer
these homework questions after reading the on-line lecture and the readings
in the text. Complete the self-check questions before attempting the homework.
Follow the instructions for submitting the homework on the unit homework page.
- There
is no homework questions for this objective.
Discussion
Questions: After
studying this objective be prepared to contribute to the following discussion
questions. Follow the instructions on the Unit
Discussions page to submit your contribution.
-
Extraterrestrial
Processes: The surface features of each of the terrestrial planets
is a product of internal processes (eg. tectonics and volcanism),
surface processes (eg. erosion by wind and running water) and extraterrestrial
processes (eg. meteorite impact). A look at the lunar-like surface
of Mercury suggests that its surface has been shaped to a high degree
by extra-terrestrial processes. After researching the the impact of
terrestrial, describe how extra-terrestrial processes such as meteorite
impacts, solar radiation, comet impact, etc have helped to shape the
surface of one of the terrestrial planets..
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