This course explores the evolution of Earth, the continents, oceans, atmosphere, climate, and biosphere over geologic time. Students learn about the scientific principles, evidence, techniques and technologies for addressing fundamental inquires such as how oxygen was added to the atmosphere, how and why climates have changed throughout time and the significance to current climate change; how water was added to the oceans, and causes of sea level change; the formation and erosion of mountains; causes and effects of glaciations; theories for the origin of life, and the timing and causes of major extinctions; and the recent importance of humans as geologic agents. Prerequisites: There are no prerequisites for the course, but completion of a first semester Geology such as: GEOL 1111 or GEOL 1110 is recommended. Note: Students cannot get credit for more than one of GEOL 2050, GEOL 2051.
This course explores the evolution of Earth, the continents, oceans, atmosphere, climate, and biosphere over geologic time. Students learn about the scientific principles, evidence, techniques and technologies for addressing fundamental inquires such as how oxygen was added to the atmosphere, how and why climates have changed throughout time and the significance to current climate change; how water was added to the oceans, and causes of sea level change; the formation and erosion of mountains; causes and effects of glaciations; theories for the origin of life, and the timing and causes of major extinctions; and the recent importance of humans as geologic agents. Prerequisites: There are no prerequisites for the course, but completion of a first semester Geology such as: GEOL 1111 or GEOL 1110 is recommended. Note: Students cannot get credit for more than one of GEOL 2050, GEOL 2051.
