General Astronomy - An Introduction to Planetary Geology

Explore the fascinating realm of planetary geology in this 42-minute lecture from Spahn's Science Lectures. Delve into the structure and composition of terrestrial worlds, understanding how planets are layered by density and rock strength. Examine the factors influencing spherical worlds, internal heating and cooling processes, and the relationship between size and geological activity. Investigate the formation of magnetic fields and the various forces shaping planetary surfaces, including impact cratering, magma rise, and different types of volcanoes. Learn about volcanism, plate tectonics, and erosion processes. Conclude by discovering how craters can be used to determine the age of planetary surfaces.

Intro
TERRESTRIAL WORLDS
LAYERING BY DENSITY
LAYERING BY ROCK STRENGTH
SPHERICAL WORLDS
INTERNAL HEATING
INTERNAL COOLING
SIZE AND GEOLOGICAL ACTIVITY
MAGNETIC FIELDS
SHAPING PLANETARY SURFACES
IMPACT CRATERING
THE RISE OF MAGMA
TYPES OF VOLCANOES
VOLCANISM
PLATE TECTONICS
EROSION
CRATERS AND AGE