Expected+Knowledge+120


 * Expected Knowledge for students starting Astronomy 120**

There are a number of science concepts that are taught in elementary school and high school (in California) that I expect you to know, coming into this class. As it is a long time since you were in elementary school, and for some of you high school as well, this list should serve as a refresher.

1. Definitions of diameter, radius, mass, weight (mass and weight are very different!), and a plane.

2. Working knowledge of arithmetic: addition, subtraction, multiplication and division using both positive and negative numbers.

3. Working knowledge of basic algebra: Knowledge of how to solve for an unknown in equations such as F=ma and E=hc/lambda

4. Awareness that the strength of gravity is proportional to mass.

5. Colors of light: Red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo and violet (the rainbow). All of these colors together make white light.

6. Structure of an atom: Electrons "orbiting" the nucleus

7. Graph reading: The ability to "read" information that is on a graph/plot, and/or to put information on a graph/plot.

8. Cause and effect: Understanding the myriad of effects (and the steps of each) that one event can cause.