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Courses
In the following course descriptions, L refers to courses with
laboratory.
131. Physical Geology. PQ: Calculus and Chem 111-112-113 or higher.
An introduction to plate tectonics, the geologic cycle, and the internal
and surface processes that make minerals and rocks and shape the scenery.
D. Rowley. Autumn. L.
132. Earth History. PQ: GeoSci 131 or consent of instructor. This
course covers the paleogeographic, biotic, and climatic development of the
earth. A. Ziegler. Winter. L.
133. The Atmosphere (=EnvStd 133). PQ: Calculus and Chem 111-112
or higher, or consent of instructor. An introduction to the fundamental
physical and chemical factors that determine the observed composition, structure
and circulation of the earth's atmosphere. Specific topics to be studied
include global energy balance and greenhouse warming, stratospheric ozone
depletion, tropospheric pollution, atmospheric dynamics, and cloud processes.
N. Nakamura. Spring.
134. Global Warming: Understanding the Forecast (=EnvStd 134, PhySci 134).
PQ: Math 102, 106, or consent of instructor; some knowledge of chemistry
or physics helpful. This course presents the science behind the forecast
of global warming to enable the student to evaluate the likelihood and potential
severity of anthropogenic climate change in the coming centuries. It includes
an overview of the physics of the greenhouse effect including comparisons
with Venus and Mars; an overview of the carbon cycle in its role as a global
thermostat; predictions and reliability of climate model forecasts of the
greenhouse world; and an examination of the records of recent and past climates
such as the glacial world and Eocene and Oligocene warm periods. D. Archer,
R. Pierrehumbert. Spring.
205. Shape, Form, and Symmetry. PQ: Calculus and Chem 111-112-113
or higher. Class limited to twelve students, with preference given to students
skilled in set theory and computer graphics. This class covers packing
of spheres in historical context with application to inorganic chemistry
and dense minerals; topology of polyhedra and nets in historical context
with application to inorganic chemistry, light minerals, and biological
species; lattices, point-, rod-, and plane-group symmetries; space-group
symmetry and use in crystallography and solid-state physics and chemistry;
and helices and other mathematical forms important for polymers and biological
organisms. Students use the catalysis program of biosym/molecular simulations
for construction of stereo diagrams of crystal structures. J. V. Smith.
Spring. L.
212. Physics of the Earth. PQ: Calculus, college physics, or consent
of instructor. Geophysical evidence bearing on the internal makeup and
dynamical behavior of the earth is considered, including seismology (properties
of elastic waves and their interpretation, and internal structure of the
earth), mechanics of rock deformation (elastic properties, creep and flow
of rocks, faulting, and earthquakes), gravity (the geoid and isostasy),
geomagnetism (magnetic properties of rocks and history and origin of the
magnetic field), heat flow (temperature within the earth, sources of heat,
and thermal history of the earth), and plate tectonics and models for the
maintenance of plate motions. D. Heinz. Spring. L.
213. Origin and Evolution of the Solar System (=Astron 213). PQ:
Consent of instructor; physical chemistry helpful. Representative topics
include abundance and origin of the elements; formation, condensation, and
age of the solar system; meteorites and the historical record of the solar
system they preserve; comets and asteroids; the planets and their satellites;
temperatures and atmospheres of the planets; and the origin of the earth's
lithosphere, hydrosphere, atmosphere, and biosphere. L. Grossman. Winter.
L.
214. The Physics of Stars and Stellar Systems (=Astron 214). PQ:
Phys 123, 133, or 143; or consent of instructor. An introduction to
the astrophysics of stars and stellar systems. The tools of astronomy are
discussed followed by the study of the physical nature of stars. Topics
covered are observational and theoretical Hertzsprung-Russell diagrams,
structure and evolution of stars, binary stars, star clusters, and end states
of stars such as white dwarfs, neutron stars, and black holes. J. Truran.
Autumn.
215. The Physical Universe (=Astron 215). PQ: Astron 214 or consent
of instructor. The laws of physics are applied on the scales of time
and distance that are required in astronomy. Physical laws are applied in
attempts to understand the structures and evolution of galaxies, quasars,
clusters of galaxies, and the universe at large. D. Q. Lamb. Spring.
217. Introduction to Mineralogy. PQ: Chem 111-112-113 or higher.
This class covers structure, chemical composition, stability, and occurrence
of major rock-forming minerals. Labs concentrate on mineral identification
with the optical microscope. L. Grossman. Autumn. L.
218. Introduction to Petrology. PQ: GeoSci 217. We learn how
to interpret observable geological associations, structures, textures, and
mineralogical and chemical compositions of rocks so as to develop concepts
of how they form and evolve. The course theme is the origin of granitic
continental crust on the only planet known to have oceans and life. Igneous,
sedimentary, and metamorphic rocks; ores; and waste disposal sites are reviewed.
A. Anderson, R. Newton. Spring. L.
222. Principles of Stratigraphy. PQ: GeoSci 131-132 or equivalent;
GeoSci 218 recommended. An introduction to the principles and methods
of stratigraphy, including facies analysis, physical and biostratigraphic
correlation, development and calibration of the geologic time scale, and
controversy concerning the completeness of the stratigraphic record, origin
of sedimentary cycles, and interactions between global sea level, tectonics,
and sediment supply. S. Kidwell. Autumn. L.
223. Introductory Paleontology (=BioSci 246). PQ: GeoSci 131-132;
or PhySci 108-109-110; or BioSci 195 and 198; or consent of instructor.
The focus of the course is on the nature of the fossil record, the information
it provides on patterns and processes of evolution through geologic time,
and how it can be used to solve geological and biological problems. Lectures
cover the principles of paleontology (including fossilization, classification,
morphologic analysis and interpretation, biostratigraphy, paleoecology,
and macroevolution); labs are systematic, introducing major groups of fossil
invertebrates. M. Foote. Winter. L.
228. Field Course in Geology and Geophysics. PQ: Consent of instructor.
This is a summer field camp with emphasis on rocks, structure, stratigraphy,
geodesy, and rates of erosion and deposition. The department provides field
vehicles and camping equipment. A. Anderson. Not offered 1996-97; will
be offered 1997-98.
229. Field Course in Modern Carbonate Environments. PQ: Consent of
instructor. A week-long field trip during spring break visits areas
in the Caribbean to examine modern coral reefs, as well as their geological
antecedents. Discussion sessions are held during the winter quarter. A.
Ziegler. Winter.
230. Field Course in Structural Geology, Petrology, and Stratigraphy. PQ:
GeoSci 131-132 and consent of instructor. A week-long field trip during
spring break visits classic locations to examine a wide variety of geological
environments and processes, including active tectonics, ancient and modern
sedimentary environments, and geomorphology. Discussion sessions are held
during the winter quarter. A. Ziegler. Not offered 1996-97; will
be offered 1997-98.
231. Physics and Chemistry of the Atmosphere. PQ: Chem 121-122-123,
Phys 131-132-133, or consent of instructor. This course introduces atmospheric
thermodynamics, cloud microphysical processes attendant to the formation
of rain and snow, solar and terrestrial radiation, and the heat budget of
the earth atmosphere system. R. Srivastava. Autumn.
232. Dynamics and Phenomenology of Planetary Atmospheres. PQ: Physics
(preferably 133 or 143), understanding of ordinary differential equations,
and basic vector calculus. This course presents an introduction to the
fluid mechanics accounting for the large-scale circulations of planetary
atmospheres. No previous knowledge of fluid mechanics or atmospheric science
is required. The emphasis is on the principles common to the atmospheres
of rapidly rotating planets such as earth, Mars, and Jupiter. Development
of the theoretical material is supplemented by labs involving analysis of
a forty-year optical disk data set of terrestrial flow patterns. N. Nakamura.
Winter. L.
233. Physical Oceanography. PQ: GeoSci 232 or consent of instructor.
This course provides a conceptual understanding of the dynamics of ocean
circulation and a background in physical oceanography for students interested
in further study of climate dynamics, chemical oceanography, marine biology,
and paleontology. Topics covered include geometry of map projections, hypsometry
of ocean basins and the geoid, temperature and salinity structure, watermasses,
geostrophy and geostrophic adjustment, Ekman layers, coastal upwelling,
Sverdrup balance, vorticity balance and western intensification, and waves
and tides. Macintosh computers and oceanographic databases are used for
laboratory exercises. D. MacAyeal. Spring. L.
234. Chemical Oceanography. PQ: Consent of instructor. An introduction
to the geochemistry of the oceans with emphasis on topics relevant to global
change, past and future. The role of the ocean in the global carbon cycle
is discussed along with the interplay between ocean circulation, biology,
and physical chemistry and its impact on the distributions of nutrients,
carbon, and oxygen in the ocean. Also covered are sediment geochemistry
and what sediments can tell us about oceans and climates of the past.
D. Archer. Not offered 1996-97; will be offered 1997-98.
235. Introduction to Inverse Methods. PQ: Knowledge of calculus,
differential equations, and linear algebra. This course provides a general
introduction to the formulation and solution of various inverse problems
in geochemistry, geophysics, and fluid dynamics. Particular emphasis is
placed on control methods as a means to solve inverse problems that have
differential equations imposed as constraints. Students are expected to
perform weekly homework assignments, which may involve use of a Macintosh
computing lab. V. Barcilon. Not offered 1996-97; will be offered 1997-98.
237. Cumulus Physics. PQ: GeoSci 231 or GeoSci 232, or consent of
instructor. This course introduces cloud microphysics beyond GeoSci
231, parameterization of cloud microphysical processes, and cloud dynamics,
especially the dynamics of convective clouds. R. Srivastava. Spring.
238. Biogeochemistry and Global Change. PQ: Chem 111-112 or consent
of instructor. This is a survey of the geochemistry of the surface of
the earth, with emphasis on biological and geological processes, their assembly
into self-regulating systems, and their potential sensitivity to anthropogenic
or other perturbations. Budgets and cycles of carbon, nitrogen, oxygen,
phosphorous, sulfur, and silicon are discussed, as well as fundamentals
of the processes of weathering, sediment diagenesis, and isotopic fractionation.
What is known about earth biogeochemistry through geologic time is also
presented. This course is offered in alternate years. D. Archer.
Autumn.
240. Field Course in Stratigraphy (=EvBiol 331). PQ: GeoSci 131-132
or equivalent. This is a one-month excursion to the northwestern United
States and/or eastern Canada to examine the tectonic and stratigraphic evolution
of the margin of North America from the Cambrian period to the present.
The purpose of the course is to acquaint students with sedimentary and volcanic
rocks deposited in a variety of environments and to examine the tectonic
and stratigraphic evolution of a complicated region. The trip takes place
in late August or early September, with field vehicles and camping equipment
provided. This course is offered in alternate years. A. Ziegler.
Summer.
299. Reading and Research in the Geophysical Sciences. PQ: Open by
arrangement to selected College students, both concentrators and qualified
nonconcentrators; students are required to submit the College Reading and
Research Course Form. Normally taken for either P/N or P/F
grading. Staff. Summer, Autumn, Winter, Spring.
303. Thermodynamics and Phase Change. PQ: College physics, chemistry,
or consent of instructor. This course comprehensively develops basic
concepts of homogeneous and heterogeneous phase equilibrium. Systems used
as illustration of principles include many of interest to earth scientists.
The emphasis of course material is on evaluation of thermodynamic data,
relations among thermodynamic quantities, and calculation of simple equilibria.
G. Miller. Autumn.
304. High-Temperature Phase Equilibrium. PQ: GeoSci 303 or consent
of instructor. This course builds on the material of GeoSci 303 through
calculations of simple high-temperature and high-pressure phased equilibria.
The starting point is geometrical, familiarizing the students with polycomponent
P-T-X diagrams of petrological interest and applications of the phase rule.
Calculations of phase equilibrium of increasing levels of difficulty introduce
specific methods applicable to equilibria in different systems. A final
section is devoted to advanced topics such as crystal-chemical prediction
of thermodynamic properties, geothermometry and geobarometry, and P-T times
cycles of petrogenesis. R. Newton. Winter.
310. Cosmochemistry. PQ: Consent of instructor. Chemical, mineralogical,
and petrographic classifications of meteorites. Topics include abundance
of the elements, origin of the elements and stellar evolution, the interstellar
medium and formation of the solar nebula, condensation of the solar system,
chemical fractionations in meteorites and planets, age of the solar system,
extinct radionuclides in meteorites, and isotopic heterogeneity of the solar
nebula. Emphasis is placed on current topics at the frontiers of research.
Part of the course takes the form of seminars prepared by the students.
L. Grossman. Not offered 1996-97; will be offered 1997-98.
311. Geochemistry. PQ: Physical chemistry. Radioactive and stable
isotope studies, distributions of rare earths and transition metals, and
geochemistry of the noble gases are studied. This course is offered in
alternate years. R. Clayton. Autumn.
312. Mineral Physics. PQ: Two years of math beyond calculus; one
year of physical chemistry or one year of both physics and chemistry; general
geology, general geophysics and mineralogy, petrology, or equivalent; or
consent of instructor. This course focuses on the application of physics
at the microscopic level to geologic and geophysical problems. The material
in this course covers vibrational, electric, and transport properties of
minerals. G. Miller. Spring.
319. Topics in Paleobiology. PQ: Consent of instructor. In this
seminar we investigate paleobiological and sedimentological topics of current
interest to students and faculty. Previous subjects have included benthic
paleoecology and paleobiogeography. Staff. Autumn.
320. Physical Principles in Geology. PQ: College-level chemistry
and physics; consent of instructor. Geometrical aspects of maps and
diagrams, error propagation, strength, rheology, viscosity, density, surface
tension, and magnetic properties of geological materials, material balances
of reactive process, heat conduction, radiation, and convection are covered.
A. Anderson, F. Richter. Spring.
333. Plant Paleontology (=EvBiol 323). PQ: Consent of instructor.
This course provides an introduction to all major groups of extant and
fossil plants, ranging from green algae to angiosperms. Recent insights
into large-scale patterns of plant phylogeny are reviewed, along with the
history of plant diversification and major extinction events. The class
also includes discussions of plant taphonomy, the use of fossil plants as
indicators of paleoclimate, the fossil spore/pollen record, evolutionary
and paleoclimatic applications of palynological data, and the history of
terrestrial ecosystems. The course is divided approximately equally between
lectures and discussions of selected literature. There are no formal laboratories,
although the class includes examination of living and fossil material at
the Garfield Park Conservatory and the Field Museum of Natural History.
P. Crane. Spring.
337. Present and Paleoclimatology. PQ: Consent of instructor. A
review of the earth's present atmospheric and oceanic circulation and an
examination of the possibilities of reconstructing climates of the geologic
past are the topics covered. This course is offered in alternate years.
A. Ziegler. Autumn.
342. Biomechanics (=Anat 342). PQ: College chemistry and physics,
and consent of instructor. Principles of fluid mechanics as applied
to biological systems, including lift, drag, conservation laws, and high
and low Reynolds number fluid mechanics. This course is offered in alternate
years. M. LaBarbera. Winter. L.
351. Fundamentals of Fluid Mechanics. PQ: Math 200, 201, 202, or
equivalent. Topics covered are conservation of mass, momentum, and energy;
kinematics; constitutive equations; ideal and viscous fluids; vorticity
and circulation; and vortex dynamics. V. Barcilon. Autumn.
352. Geophysical Fluid Dynamics. PQ: GeoSci 351 or equivalent; basic
vector calculus and Fourier transform. This course provides a theoretical
foundation for understanding the large-scale flow patterns of the earth's
atmosphere and ocean. Topics include governing equations of fluids on a
rotating sphere under gravity, conservation properties, geostrophic adjustment
and wave dynamics, quasi-geostrophic dynamics with Ekman friction, effects
of isolated mountains on the general circulation of the atmosphere, two-layer
model of baroclinic instability and storm dynamics, and wind-driven ocean
circulation. N. Nakamura. Not offered 1996-97; will be offered 1997-98.
358. Dynamics of the Stratosphere. PQ: GeoSci 352, or equivalent,
or consent of instructor. This course focuses on the vertical structure
of the earth's atmosphere due to compressibility and radiative heating,
and its consequences on the dynamics, particularly of the stratosphere.
Emphasis is placed more on the underlying physics than on the mere phenomenology
of the stratosphere. Topics discussed include exponential atmosphere at
rest; ID model of radiative transfer and vertical temperature profile of
the atmosphere; vertical propagation of Rossby and gravity waves; wave-mean
flow interaction; tracer transport and mixing; and current issues such as
ozone hole and sudden warming. N. Nakamura. Not offered 1996-97; will
be offered 1997-98.
360. Atmospheric Chemistry. PQ: Calculus and introductory chemistry
and physics, or consent of instructor. The course considers the chemical,
physical, and radiative processes that establish the photochemical steady
state of the earth's atmosphere. Particular attention is given to how the
atmosphere responds to both anthropogenic and natural perturbations. Topics
include stratospheric ozone, oxidative processes in the troposphere, air
pollution, and biogeochemical cycles. J. Abbatt. Autumn.
368. Radar Meteorology. PQ: Consent of instructor. This course
covers principles of pulsed microwave radar (coherent and incoherent), scattering
and extinction of electromagnetic waves by hydrometeors, effects of polarization
on extinction and scattering, theory of the Doppler spectrum, and use of
radar for meteorological observations. This course is offered in alternate
years. R. Srivastava. Winter.
373. Radiation Transfer Theory. PQ: Advanced college-level knowledge
of electromagnetic theory, atomic structure, and differential equations;
or consent of instructor. This course develops the theory of radiation
emission, absorption, and scattering by planetary atmospheres. Emphasis
is placed on the derivation and solution of the radiative transfer equation
for plane parallel, horizontally homogeneous atmospheres. Cases analyzed
include stellar radiation incident on an atmosphere from above and thermal
emission by gases within an atmosphere. J. Frederick. Not offered 1996-97;
will be offered 1997-98.
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