2020-2021 Catalog 
    
    Dec 03, 2024  
2020-2021 Catalog [PREVIOUS CATALOG YEAR]

ENV 110 - Environmental Geology


Description: Introduction to geologic studies and their application to environmental problems, causes and possible solutions. Includes geologic processes, geohazards, and geologic natural resources. This course is cross-listed with GLG 110 .

Prerequisites: Reading Proficiency.

Credits: 4
Lecture: 3
Lab: 3

Course Content:
  1. The role of population in environmental problems. 
  2. Basic geology, including rocks and minerals, plate tectonics, and basic surface processes 
  3. Earthquakes 
  4. Volcanism 
  5. Streams and flooding 
  6. Mass wasting and slope stability 
  7. Climate, as related to geology 
  8. Water as a resource 
  9. Soil 
  10. Mineral resources 
  11. Energy resources, including coal, oil, and natural gas 
  12. Alternative energy resources 
  13. Waste disposal 
  14. Water and air pollution 

Learning Outcomes:
  1. Use scientific reasoning to evaluate physical and natural phenomena. (1-13)
    1. Use scientific methods used to explain geological and environmental concepts and theories.
  2. Identify the unifying themes of the scientific field of study. (1-13) 
    1. Recognize the role of population in environmental issues.
    2. Identify and explain the causes and hazards of some natural geologic processes. 
    3. Describe the role of natural resources in modern culture and the problems caused by their extraction and exploitation.
  3. Interpret the numerical and/or graphical presentation of scientific data. (1-13) 
    1. Identify, synthesize, interpret, and evaluate data associated with the discipline of environmental geology. 
    2. Draw conclusions from geologic data presented on graphs or charts regarding population, earthquakes, volcanoes, streams and flooding, mass wasting, atmospheric composition, natural resources (water, soil, mineral and energy), alternative energy, waste disposal and water pollution. 
  4. Use the tools and equipment necessary for basic scientific analysis and research. (2) 
    1. Perform basic laboratory skills to identify the physical properties of minerals and rocks.
    2. Use topographic maps.
  5. Record the results of investigation through writing. (1-13)