This lab provides a hands-on survey of the fundamentals of physical geology. We introduce the identification and interpretation of rocks and minerals. We use topographic maps, air photos, and satellite images to analyze and understand a variety of dynamic systems, including rivers, groundwater, glaciers, sea coasts, and deserts. Finally, we examine geologic time, structural geology, geologic maps, and plate tectonics. Connections are drawn whenever possible between people, resources, and the natural Earth systems. There is a required day-long Sunday field trip to examine local geological and environmental features. This class stands alone but is best taken concurrently with or following GEOL 0800 or GEOL 0820.  Offered every fall and spring term. Combined lecture/lab over 2 hours on Tuesdays and quizzes in less than 1 hour on Thursdays.

Course prerequisites

No prerequisites. Corequisites: GEOL 0800 or GEOL 0820.