Implications for human activities and maintenance of natural systems are also discussed. Fresh water is the most fundamental resource sustaining life on the continents. This course is an introduction to the study of water and its interactions with the geologic environment. Basic hydrological processes such as precipitation, streamflow, and the subsurface flow of ground water are analyzed by quantitative methods. Climatic and human-induced changes in the hydrological cycle are examined, and current issues and policies are discussed in light of the increasing demands and impacts of a technological society on water resources and associated natural systems.
Soils constitute the fundamental link between atmosphere, water, biota, and rock.
Knowledge of the physical, chemical, and biological processes operating in soils is essential when assessing natural cycles as well as anthropogenic alterations to those natural cycles. In this course, we will analyze a wide range of issues, including soil formation, soil mineralogy, soil fertility and nutrient cycling, sediment pollution, soil contamination, water pollution, sediment erosion and deposition, and implications for land-use planning. Labs will be project-oriented and will consist of a combination of field work and instrumental analysis. Laboratory exercises will emphasize the hands-on description and analysis of structures in the field as well as the practical aspects of map interpretation and computer analysis of structural data. This course will address the origin, transport, fate and analysis of chemicals in the environment.