GEOL 115 - Global Change:Geologic Perspt

Credits: 4

Examines important, global-scale changes in the atmosphere and hydrosphere from geological, astronomical, and other perspectives. Formation and early state of the solar system; the early greenhouse atmosphere and its tectonic origin; geologic controls on Earth’s hothouse and ice house climates; solar and orbital influences on climate; ice ages; the role of the oceans. Rise of civilization and its dependence on environmental factors. Study of recent phenomena including ozone depletion, El Nino, acid rain and possible global warming reinforces the modern theme of global human interdependency. The use of unresolved scientific issues in setting public policy is also discussed. Prerequisite: high school chemistry. Spring,