Astronomy: A Beginner's Guide to the Universe

Presents scientific literacy in the context of astronomy, with the aim of teaching students to think critically and analytically about the physical world and the development of science. The text requires a minimum level of simple algebra and trigonometry. It presents an explanation of key physical principles and techniques like Kepler and Newton's laws, spectroscopy and distance measurement (the cosmic distance ladder is used throughout). Also avaialble: Instructor's Edition (0-13-644097-5), Test Item File (0-13-644105-X), Student Lab Manual (0-13-644196-3).