A description of the major geologic hazards, earthquakes, volcanoes, landslides, erosion, etc. An introduction to hydrogeology from the point of view of water use problems. A discussion of energy, mineral an soil resources. Problems of air, soil and water pollution. The course emphasizes hands-on activities in which field trips, lab work, and computer applications are all brought to bear on the study of the Earth.
Enrollment is limited to first year students.
Principles of carbonate geology including the petrology, paleontology and sedimentary environments of limestones will be offered. Offered occasionally in January Term on San Salvador Island. Introduction to the morphology, paleontology and evolution of fossil organisms with emphasis on the invertebrates. Physical properties, chemical propertied, crystal structure and geologic occurrence of minerals. Introduction to optical properties of minerals.