Laboratory exercises include hand specimen, microscopic, and X-ray diffraction identification and origin of rocks. Rocks and Minerals. This is a general course in earth materials for science majors. Study of minerals emphasizes crystallography and chemical classification. Processes of rock formation provide the framework for study of rocks.
Some exercises focus on techniques for teaching about rocks and minerals.
Not approved for majors in the Geology Track. The physical aspects of sediments and their hydrodynamic interpretation with special emphasis on environments of deposition, sediment transport, and the interpretation of sedimentary textures and structures. Laboratory studies include field measurement of sedimentary structures, sieve and pipette analysis, and the use of the rapid sediment analyzer. Field trip required. An introduction to Geographic Information Systems with an emphasis on geoscience applications.