Greenstein G. Understanding the Universe: An Inquiry Approach to Astronomy and the Nature of Scientific Research

Cambridge University Press, 2013. — 658 p. — ISBN: 9780521145329.A student-active introduction to astronomy, emphasizing inquiry learning so students will clearly understand our universe and the scientific method. Within-text and end-of-chapter questions check understanding of concepts and require the student to think critically through astronomy-based problems. ‘Nature of Science' and 'Detectives on the Case' sections in each chapter encourage students to take on the role of a scientist and so develop an understanding of how scientific progress is made, leading students through a chain of arguments of forming and testing hypotheses, in the context of specific astronomical topics. By focusing on key topics, the student is able to develop a deeper understanding of the core areas of astronomy. Math is used to make intuitive points and kept simple by using a two-track system to first describe the logic of the calculation followed by a more detailed example. Simple illustrations support the text and step students through concepts visually.Steps to Astronomy:
The sky
The origins of astronomy
Gravity and orbits
Light
The astronomers' tools: telescopes and space probes
The Solar System:
Introducing the Solar System
The inner Solar System
The outer Solar System
Smaller bodies in the Solar System
Planets beyond the Solar System
Stars:
Our Sun
A census of stars
The formation of stars and planets
Stellar structure
Stellar evolution and death
Galaxies and the Universe:
The Milky Way galaxy
Galaxies
Cosmology
Life in the Universe