The geology courses are designed for students interested in the geology, chemistry, and biology options of the environmental science major, the teacher education program, and for those with general interest in the area. Principles of Geology. The study of the Earth with emphasis on the hydrologic system, the theory of plate tectonics and the geology and fossils of Iowa. The laboratory emphasizes the description, identification and drawing of outcrops and fossils.
Students prepare their own fossil collection.
Weekend field trips may replace some laboratory periods. Ocean and Atmosphere. Topics include geology of the sea floor, atmospheric and oceanic circulation, tides and currents, seawater chemistry, storm systems, global warming and marine biology and ecology. The Gaia Hypothesis is proposed as an organizing principle. The laboratory emphasizes meteorological instruments and observations and the description, identification and drawing of marine organisms using the microscope and models.