EAS 2200 - The Earth System

(crosslisted)
(also ENGRD 2200 ) (PBS)

Fall, spring. 4 credits. Letter grades only.

Prerequisite: MATH 1110 or MATH 1910.

A. Moore and W. White.

An integrated introduction to the earth system stressing the geological, biological, chemical, and physical interactions among the atmosphere, ocean, and solid earth. The course applies basic scientific and mathematical concepts to explain the history and behavior of the earth system. The course includes discussions of topics that are relevant to a wide range of scientists and engineers, such as the physical basis of climate change, earthquakes, and the co-evolution of life and the earth system.

Outcome 1: Describe and use the scientific process; i.e. explain how theories are built upon observations and how both are tested and revised. Be able to give Earth-related examples of this process.

Outcome 2: Explain how fundamental physical, chemical, and biological principles shape the planet Earth, providing concrete examples.

Outcome 3: Explain the place of the Earth in the cosmos: specifically how and when it formed, and how it continues to evolve through processes such as plate tectonics, erosion and sedimentation, etc. Describe the key observations that have led scientists to this present theory of Earth.

Outcome 4: Describe the history of life on Earth and explain how natural selection and evolution has led to the current diversity of organisms on Earth, including man. Explain how life has affected and changed the Earth.

Outcome 5: Be able to participate knowledgeably and intelligently in discussions of public policy related to earth science, particularly with respect to hazards, such as earthquakes and volcanoes, and resources such as water, mineral deposits, hydrocarbons, etc.; and the impact of man’s activities on the Earth, particularly including climate change.