1374 - GEOL 4, PHYSICAL GEOLOGY with Lab
This is a general education class that introduces students to the basic concepts of geology. After an analysis of the foundations of the Theory of Plate Tectonics, we will quickly move on towards a physical/chemical approach to the subject, with the purpose of letting the students understand the reasons why minerals and rocks form, last, break down, melt, change. We will then move on to the analysis of the physical environments where rocks form. The course will include a discussion on geological time and on the interpretation of sedimentary depositional environments.
The class consists of two parts: lecture and lab. You need to pass both parts in order to pass the class.
The class is accessible to anyone with a basic knowledge of physics, chemistry, and biology. Still, during such an intense, fast-paced session as this 6-weeks Winter course, you will need to pay constant attention to the materials discussed in class and spend a considerable amount of time to work with the class materials.
The class pace is intensive (more than four hours a day, for four days a week), and you can not afford to be absent or miss work. Absences will effectively compromise your overall grasp and understanding of the subject.
Syllabus:
Click here for a .pdf copy of the Syllabus
Class Hours:
Lecture: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, 08:00 - 10:05, Drescher Hall 136
Lab: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, 10:15 - 12:20, Drescher Hall 136
Office Hours:
After class: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, 12:25 - 12:40, Drescher Hall 132
Textbooks:
Lecture: C. C. Plummer and D. H. Carlson, Physical Geology, 15th edition (2008), McGraw Hill.
(There is a 16thth edition available, but you can still use the older of the two)
Lab: V. S. Cronin, Laboratory Manual in Physical Geology, 11th edition
I would strongly recommend using a brand new copy of the current lab manual edition.
Both books are essential. You can also check these books' details and compare Amazon's prices on this page.
Other Class Materials:
For the lab part of this class you will also need to buy a 2x2 glass. The glass can be bought at the SMC bookstore for a few dollars. You will need your own, personal glass for lab exercises and tests. You will not be allowed to borrow one during a test. If, at the end of the winter session, you feel that you will not need your glass anymore, please consider donating it to the Department of Earth Science. All other lab materials (magnets, hydrochloric acid bottles, streak plates, etc.) will be provided by the College.
Exams:
1 - Wednesday, June 26, 2019: study guide (available since June 22, 2019)
2 - Wednesday, July 10, 2019: study guide (available since July 6, 2019)
3 - Wednesday, July 17, 2019: study guide (available since July 13, 2019)
4 - Wednesday, July 24 (cumulative), 2019: study guide (available since July 19, 2019)
Los Angeles, CA
© Alessandro Grippo, since 1994
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