Topics for Exam 2

The general topics to be emphasized on Exam 2 include:

Telescope Configurations

Differences and Advantages of Reflectors vs. Refractors

Earth's Atmosphere and Interior

Line Broadening

Telescope Resolution

Using Doppler Shifts to Measure Recession Velocity

Atomic and Molecular Energy Levels

Atomic Structure

Atomic Transitions

Ionization and Recombination

Propagation of X-Rays, Radio, and Optical Radiation through Earth's Atmosphere

Emission and Absorption Lines

Kirchhoff's Laws

Determining the Age of a Substance using Radioactive Dating

I will also expect you to be able to do calculations involving:

Determining the Theoretical Resolution of a Telescope

Determining the Recession Velocity using Doppler Shifts

Determining the Age of a Substance using Radioactive Dating