Atmospheric Evolution of Rocky Planets

This course will cover formation and evolution of the atmospheres of rocky planets, with a focus on atmospheric chemistry. Topics to be discussed include atmospheric structure, energy balance, chemical equilibrium and kinetics, surface reactions, atmospheric escape, volatile delivery, impacts and volcanic outgassing. Topics will be discussed in the context of both the Solar system (Venus, Earth, Mars, Titan) and extrasolar planet observations. To be offered every other year, Winter or Spring quarter. Topics can be adjusted to suit the needs of the students.