Exoplanet Atmospheres Physical Processes

In each chapter, Sara Seager offers a conceptual introduction, examples that combine the relevant physics equations with real data, and exercises. Topics range from foundational knowledge, such as the origin of atmospheric composition and planetary spectra, to more advanced concepts, such as solutions to the radiative transfer equation, polarization, and molecular and condensate opacities. Since planets vary widely in their atmospheric properties, Seager emphasizes the major physical processes that govern all planetary atmospheres.
Moving from first principles to cutting-edge research, Exoplanet Atmospheres is an ideal resource for students and researchers in astronomy and earth sciences, one that will help prepare them for the next generation of planetary science.
- The first textbook to describe exoplanet atmospheres
- Illustrates concepts using examples grounded in real data
- Provides a step-by-step guide to understanding the structure and emergent spectrum of a planetary atmosphere
- Includes exercises for students