Physics and Chemistry of the Solar System, 2nd Edition, is a comprehensive survey of the planetary physics and physical chemistry of our own solar system. It covers current research in these areas and the planetary sciences that have benefited from both earth-based and spacecraft-based experimentation. These experiments form the basis of this encyclopedic reference, which skillfully fuses synthesis and explanation. Detailed chapters review each of the major planetary bodies as well as asteroids, comets, and other small orbitals. Astronomers, physicists, and planetary scientists can use this state-of-the-art book for both research and teaching. This Second Edition features extensive new material, including expanded treatment of new meteorite classes, spacecraft findings from Mars Pathfinder through Mars Odyssey 2001, recent reflections on brown dwarfs, and descriptions of planned NASA, ESA, and Japanese planetary missions. * New edition features expanded treatment of new meteorite classes, the latest spacecraft findings from Mars, information about 100+ new discoveries of planets and stars, planned lunar and planetary missions, more end-of-chapter exercises, and more * Includes extensive new material and is amply illustrated throughout * Reviews each major planetary body, asteroids, comets, and other small orbitals.

Introduction -- Astronomical Perspective -- General Description of the Solar System -- The Sun and the Solar Nebula -- The Major Planets -- Pluto and the Icy Satellites of the Outer Planets Comets and Meteors -- Meteorites and Asteroids -- The Airless Rocky Bodies -- The Terrestrial Planets: Mars, Venus, and Earth -- Planets and Life about Other Stars -- Future Prospects -- Appendix III.

Includes bibliographical references (pages 637-642) and index.

Print version record.

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