Grain size, morphology, mineralogy, structures, and field practicum will be included in lab instruction. Crystallography including external form and internal order. Crystal chemistry, atomic structure, crystal structure, and compositional variation, nature and origin of physical properties. Mineral association, occurrence, and paragenesis. Introduction to x-ray crystallography and optical mineralogy.
Laboratory includes determinative crystallography and systematic determinative mineralogy.
Extensive study of hand specimens with emphasis on composition, texture, structure, and alteration. Geologic features, processes, and geologic history that can be seen in Southcentral Alaska and understood through field experiences. Students expected to collect data and synthesize information related to geomorphology, structure, environmental geology, and paleontology. Special topics chosen to reflect current advances in geology or specialized fields. In-depth coverage above that given in traditional courses.