Modern techniques to deal with environmental problems at the earth's surface and shallow subsurface. Application of x-ray diffraction analysis to crystalline materials. Structures and modes of formation of clays and associated minerals. Principles of water movement through the unsaturated and saturated zones, with emphasis placed on qualifying the rate and method of movement. Investigation of the relationship between the movement of water through a porous medium and the movement of inorganic and organic compounds.
Special emphasis is given to developing methods by which contaminant movement can be predicted.
Students may receive credit for each of the above topics. Study of general and specific topics in geology. Content changes with each offering. May be repeated once. Individual studies, topics of study are especially designed to increase the student's knowledge of some aspects of geology as related to his field of interest.