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Physical Geology (GEOL 1100)
Total Credits:
4
Lecture Credits:
3
Lab Credits:
1
Description:
This course explores the principles and processes of geology with an emphasis on the study of the Earth's structures, materials (internal and external) and plate tectonics and how all climates past, present and future are related to all Earth’s processes. You will examine and identify igneous, sedimentary and metamorphic rocks. You will explore the dramatic role of volcanoes, earthquakes, erosion and landslides in the shaping of our planet. You will learn topographic map and stratigraphic analysis, as well as structural geology. Field trips may be included in the course. This course includes two hours of required lab per week.
Topical Outline:
1. Rocks and Minerals, including identification
2. Geologic processes and cycles, geological time
3. How the whole Earth behaves including climate change
4. Interaction between humans and the earth’s natural environment
5. Topographic and geologic map analysis
6. Structural geology
Learning Outcomes:
1. Explain scientific theories and test hypotheses
2. Understand basic geologic structures, geologic processes and cycles, and interpret geologic time
3. Understand the relationship of the interaction of societal behavior and geologic systems
4. Articulate the effect that humans and other biological systems have on each other as well as physical systems
5. Identify the tools used to evaluate the range of responses humans have developed through various institutions in confronting the dilemma of resource management and discuss societal responses to natural disaster and hazards
6. Demonstrate a systematic approach to rock and mineral identification, using rock and mineral nomenclature
Prerequisites:
Placement into
READ 1300 or completion of
READ 0200 or
ESOL 0052
MnTC: