Geology
GEOL 1050 - Geology and the Environment F (2-3) [0.50]
Geological materials, their origin, recognition and economic potential, use and location; oil and gas, coal, mineral deposits, aggregate resources, groundwater, Geological basis for environmental evaluation and land use. Emphasis on local and North American examples.
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GEOL 1100 - Principles of Geology S,F,W (3-0) [0.50]
Introduction to geological principles, their historical development and application to interpreting Earth materials and processes. Suitable for those wishing a general knowledge of earth sciences. (Also offered through Distance Education format.) Restriction(s): May not be taken for credit by students in B.Sc.(Env.) Earth and Atmospheric Science Major, or B.Sc. Degree program.
GEOL 2020 - Stratigraphy F (3-0) [0.50]
Principles of recognizing and interpreting earth surface environments using examples from geology, geomorphology and archeology. Brief summary of sediment identification, recognition of processes and environments. Section description and interpretation followed by principles of physical correlation and facies interpretation. Concepts of physical, biological and radiometric dating. Controls on stratigraphic sequence development isostasy, eustasy and tectonics. Sedimentary basin development, interpretation and history including changes in atmosphere, hydrosphere and biosphere. (Offered in even-numbered years.)
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GEOL 2110 - Earth Material Science F (3-3) [0.50]
Minerals are the building blocks of rocks, and rocks are the basis of the earth's crust. The nature , classification and recognition of the common rocks and minerals and their chemical and physical transformations is dealt with. Emphasis is on the role that minerals and rocks play in determining the abiotic character of earth-surface environments.
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GEOL 2200 - Glacial Geology W (3-3) [0.50]
This course is designed to give students an introduction to the processes, landforms and deposits of glacial environments. This includes basic principles of glaciology, the landforms and deposits found in various glacial and periglacial environments, and the nature of past glaciations in Earth history. Ancient to recent glacial deposits from the Great Lakes region and other international locations will be examined. A field trip will be scheduled.
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GEOL 2250 - Geology of Natural Disasters S,W (3-0) [0.50]
This course will offer insight into the mechanisms of natural geological disasters and their effects on Planet Earth, human civilization and life in general. Events before, during and after geological disasters such as earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, meteorite impact and climate change will be the focus of this course. This course will not count as a science credit for B.Sc. students. (Offered through Distance Education format only.)
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GEOL 3060 - Groundwater W (3-0) [0.50]
This course provides a general understanding of the physical and chemical processes that operate in the groundwater zone under natural and human-induced conditions. The interrelations between the groundwater regime and the other components of the hydrological cycle are studied. Considerable emphasis is placed on the applied aspects of topics such as exploration, testing and development of aquifers for water supply, the chemical quality of groundwater, and the hydrogeological aspects of waste disposal.
GEOL 3090 - Applied Structural Geology W (3-0) [0.50]
Systematic study of structural elements of the earth crust. Introduces concepts on the distribution, origin and structural development of the major landforms in North America and other continents (plate tectonics). The course provides examples of structural geology applied to engineering, environmental geology, and ore geology. Hands-on experience on deformation analysis, slope stability and interpretation of structures during the field trip and in classroom simulations.(Offered in odd-numbered years.)
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GEOL 3130 - Agrogeology W (3-0) [0.50]
Inter-disciplinary course: geology; soil, crop and horticultural sciences; international development. The geological basis of farming, application of agrominerals, such as phosphates, limestones, gypsums, as well as fertilizers in agriculture and horticulture. Evaluating the environmental effects of mining/processing of agrominerals and the use of fertilizers. Case studies and experiences from around the world.
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GEOL 3190 - Environmental Water Chemistry F (3-0) [0.50]
An examination of the chemical composition of both natural and contaminated waters at the earth's surface and the interaction of these waters with soils and sediments. The significance of these interactions will be studied with respect to the mobility of organic and metallic constituents in geochemical cycles and as contaminants in the environment.
GEOL 3250 - Field Methods in Geosciences F (2-2) [0.50]
This course is designed to provide experience in field methods and applied aspects of Earth surface science. The field camp portion will focus on geological mapping skills, while the rest of the term will be spent on developing a consulting proposal for a field-based project. Other topics covered will be project design, proposal writing, oral communication skills and ethics of field-based research. Students are required to notify the designated departmental instructor of their intention to participate in this course during the previous Winter semester. There will be a fee to cover partial costs in this course; students in financial need should approach the Director of the school.
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GEOL 4090 - Sedimentology F (3-3) [0.50]
Origin, transport, deposition of sediments, and formation of sedimentary rocks. Emphasis will be on the interpretation of recent and ancient environments of deposition, and on the uses of sedimentary materials. Six laboratories will be scheduled as field trips. One Saturday field trip may be scheduled. (Offered in even-numbered years.)
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GEOL 4110 - Topics in Earth Science F,W (3-0) [0.50]
Lecture-discussion or seminar on selected topics in Earth Science to be conducted by faculty with expertise in the area. Students should check with the department to determine what topic, if any, will be offered during specific semesters. Field trips will be scheduled as required.
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GEOL 4130 - Clay and Humic Chemistry W (3-2) [0.50]
This course is a study of the fundamental chemistry of clay minerals and humic substances in the environment, with particular reference to soils, sediments and waters. Emphasis will be placed on their structures and charge characteristics in the context of surface complexation modeling of proton binding and cation and anion adsorption. (Offered in even-numbered years.)
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GEOL 4180 - Independent Study in Earth Science F,W (3-0) [0.50]
This independent study option is designed to provide senior undergraduate students with an opportunity to pursue library or field research in the Earth Sciences under faculty supervision and to prepare a research report. Formal agreement between the student and the faculty supervisor is required, as is approval of the School Director.
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GEOL 4240 - Geomicrobiology F (3-0) [0.50]
This course focuses on understanding the role of microorganisms in shaping the solid surface of the Earth. This will include the major chemical and biochemical transformations by microorganisms in natural surface and subsurface environments. We will consider the contribution of microorganisms to crucial element cycles, including carbon, sulfur, and select metals, and ultimately to rock cycling. Aspects of early life on Earth, astrobiology, and environmental biotechnology will be included as appropriate. (Offered in odd numbered years.)
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