Publisher's Synopsis
This book is an attempt to collect various topics in solar system and planetary physics at one place in a comprehensive manner. It describes the phenomena of planetary atmospheres, ionospheres and magnetospheres. Beginning with the physics of the Sun, i.e., some aspects of astrophysics which serves as prerequisite for other chapters, this book covers the basic characteristics of the planetary system, their interaction with solar wind and plasma waves, aurora and airglow, and planetary atmospheres with special reference to their composition and temperature. Finally it discusses cosmic rays and cometary physics. The text includes mathematical derivations followed by observations on each planet which is supported by numerous figures and tables.
