Some courses displayed may not be offered every year. For actual course offerings by quarter, please consult the Quarterly Class Search
or GOLD (for current students). To see the historical record of when a particular course has been taught in the past, please visit the Course Enrollment Histories.
EARTH 100.
Introduction to Geophysics
(4)
JI, TANIMOTO, ARCHULETA
Prerequisite: Mathematics 3C or Mathematics 4A and 4B; Physics 1, 2, and 3 (may be taken concurrently), or Physics 6A-B-C (may be taken concurrently).
Recommended Preparation: Earth 2 or 3.Enrollment Comments: Concurrently offered with Earth 200. Concurrently offered with Earth 200
Survey of major topics in geophysics at an elementary level; the figure of the earth, its gravitational and magnetic fields, seismology and the deep structure of the earth, heat flow, methods of geophysical exploration. The geophysical basis of plate tectonics and sea floor spreading.
EARTH 102A.
Petrology of Igneous Rocks
(5)
STAFF
Prerequisite: Mathematics 3A; and, Earth 114 and 115 with a grade of C or better.
Introduction to the occurrence, associations, tectonics, and petrogenesis of plutonic and volcanic rocks. Introduction to the physical chemistry of magma systems; magmatic crystallization and differentiation; pluton emplacement, volcanic eruption mechanisms. Lecture and lab.
EARTH 102B.
Sedimentology Petrology
(4)
STAFF
Prerequisite: Geology 114 or 114A-B and 115. Concurrent enrollment with Geology 102BL required.
Recommended Preparation: Geology 124T.Enrollment Comments: Course materials fee required.
The texture, mineralogy, classification, and primal structure of sedimentary rocks and their significance in relation to regional setting, environment of deposition, and postdepositional history. Field study emphasizes interpretation of sedimentary sequences.
EARTH 102BL.
Sedimentology Petrology Laboratory
(1)
STAFF
Prerequisite: Geology 14 or 114 or 114A-B; and Geology 15; and Geology 102B (may be taken concurrently).
Recommended Preparation: Geology 124T.
Practical experience in identification of sedimentary rocks, using the petrographic microscope, and x-ray diffraction.
EARTH 102C.
Metamorphic Petrology
(5)
HACKER
Prerequisite: Earth 114 and 115 with a grade of C or better.
Enrollment Comments: Course materials fee required.
Study of metamorphic rocks to understand tectonic processes. Metamorphic minerals, metamorphic textures, physical processes responsible for metamorphism, phase equilibria, thermodynamics, diffusion, thermobarometry, kinetics, geochronology, and high-temperature rock deformation. Lecture and lab.
EARTH 103.
Fundamentals of Structural Geology
(5)
GANS
Prerequisite: Earth 104A; Math 2B or 3B (may be taken concurrently); Physics 6A or 1
Enrollment Comments: Course materials fee charged.
Deformation of rocks--faulting, folding and flow. Theory and observations at scales ranging from mountain belts to microscopic. Lab and lecture.
EARTH 104A.
Field Studies in Geological Methods
(4)
STAFF
Prerequisite: Earth 2; consent of department.
Recommended Preparation: Earth 3; and, Earth 114 (114A-B)Enrollment Comments: Course materials fee charged.
Introduction to the methods of geological observations and interpretations, with an emphasis on understanding earth processes in the field and reconstructing the physical history of the earth; the stratigraphic, petrologic, and structural relations of rocks. Geologic report writing.
EARTH 104AH.
Field Studies Honors Tutorial
(1)
STAFF
Prerequisite: Honors standing; consent of instructor; concurrent enrollment in Earth 104A.
Adjunct tutorial course with Earth 104A; emphasis on comprehensive report preparation, writing, illustration related to geologic mapping in the field.
EARTH 104B.
Field Methods
(4)
STAFF
Prerequisite: Earth 114 and 103. All with a C- or better.
Enrollment Comments: Course materials fee required.
Geologic mapping on topographic maps and aerial photographs; use of geologic field instruments; field techniques; preparation of geologic maps and reports. Field work is completed during the break and between winter and spring quarters.
EARTH 104G.
Digital Analysis and Interpretation of Field Data
(4)
RIOUX
Prerequisite: Earth 2
Recommended Preparation: Earth 3; and Earth 114
Introduction to commonly used computer programs and techniques for analyzing and visualizing surface and subsurface spatial and structural data in the Earth Sciences. Local site visits involve hands-on demonstrations in geologic data collection. Introduction to scientific writing. Lecture and Lab.
EARTH 105.
Earth?s Climate: Past and Present
(4)
LEA, LISIECKI
Prerequisite: Earth 1 or 2 or 3 or 4.
Enrollment Comments: Concurrently offered with EARTH 205.
Description and quantitative analysis of climate processes and paleoclimate proxies. Processes include radiation and the Earth?s energy budget, the influence of orbital cycles, ocean circulation, monsoons, ENSO, and ice sheets. Paleoclimate reconstructions from tectonic-scale to the last millennium, with emphasis on glacial cycles and Plio- Pleistocene climate evolution.
EARTH 106.
Introduction to Climate Modeling
(4)
LISIECKI
Recommended Preparation: Upper-Division standing for undergraduates. Math 4B AND one of: Earth 4, Earth 105, Earth 130, Earth 164B, Geog 3A, Geog 110, or Geog 134. Or instructor permission. No instructor permission required for graduate students.Enrollment Comments: Concurrently offered with Earth 206. Quarters usually offered: Winter, Fall.
An introduction to climate models and their application to studies of past, modern, and future climate. Students will learn fundamental modeling concepts, gain experience running several kinds of models, and read/evaluate recent modeling papers. A variety of models will be introduced, with emphasis on atmosphere-ocean General Circulation Models (GCMs) and "simple"(zero-dimensional) models. No previous modeling or programming experience is required.
EARTH 107.
Climate Change: Lessons from the Past
(4)
WELDEAB
Prerequisite: Upper-division standing.
Introduction to the fundamental forces that shape and modulate the Earth's climate. Learning about climate forcings (solar insolation, albedo, greenhouse effect, ocean circulation) will provide a scientific basis to understand past, current, and future climate changes.
EARTH 108.
Clastic Depositional Environments
(4)
BUSBY, SIMMS
Prerequisite: Earth 102A, Earth 114, and Earth 122 (may be taken concurrently).
Enrollment Comments: Course materials fee required.
Emphasis on tectonically active settings, topics change yearly. Clastic depositional models for alluvial fan, fan delta, and turbidite fans. Volcaniclastic successions, including subaerial- to deepwater-erupted pyroclastic rocks and lava flows, as well as volcanic mudflows and sandstones. Field work completed on weekends or over spring break.
EARTH 109.
Geology of California
(4)
STAFF
Prerequisite: Earth 104A; Sophomore standing or higher
Enrollment Comments: Course materials fee required. Field Trips required.
Introduction to the geology, geologic history, tectonic evolution, and landscape development of California. A brief survey of California's petroleum, mineral, geothermal, and water resources.
EARTH 111.
Principles of Paleontology
(4)
TIFFNEY
Prerequisite: Upper-division standing.
Recommended Preparation: an introductory biology course.Enrollment Comments: Same course as EEMB 136. Letter grade required for majors.
The ecologic structure and evolution of the biosphere as illustrated by the fossil record.
EARTH 111L.
Principles of Paleontology Laboratory
(2)
TIFFNEY
Prerequisite: Earth 111 (may be taken concurrently).
Enrollment Comments: Same course as EEMB 136L. Not open for credit to students who have completed Biology 111L.
Exercises and projects in the identification and interpretation of fossil taxa and fossil communities.
EARTH 113.
Engineering and Environmental Geology
(4)
KELLER
Prerequisite: Mathematics 3A-B or 34A-B; and, Physics 1 or 6A or 21; upper-division standing.
Enrollment Comments: Course fee charged.
Application of geologic and environmental principles to civil engineering problems. Includes: rock and soil mechanics; landslides; hydrology; earthquakes; and professional practice.
EARTH 114.
Geomaterials
(4)
STAFF
Prerequisite: Earth 2; Chemistry 1A-1AL (may be taken concurrently).
Examination of geomaterials at atomic level. Atomic structure, states of matter, bonding, elementary phase equilibria. Composition and structure of atmosphere, hydrosphere, crust, mantle and core. Structure and composition of important geochemical compounds emphasizing rock-forming minerals.
EARTH 115.
Analytical Methods in Geomaterials
(4)
COTTLE, RIOUX
Prerequisite: Earth 114
Enrollment Comments: Course materials fee charged.
Optical properties of inorganic crystals; techniques of mineral identification using the polarizing microscope; strategies for studying rocks in thin section. Fundamental theory and application of electron and ion-beam instruments in quantitative characterization of geomaterials. Laboratory sessions include lectures as appropriate.
EARTH 117.
Earth Surface Processes and Landforms
(4)
KELLER
Prerequisite: Earth 1 or 2 or Geography 3B.
Enrollment Comments: Additional fieldwork (10 hours) required. Meets writing requirement. Course material fee charged.
Introduction to the theory of landscape evolution and the study of the processes that create and modify landforms.
EARTH 118.
Summer Field Geology
(8)
GANS, COTTLE, HACKER, BURBANK
Prerequisite: Earth 103, 104A & 104B; one course from Earth 102A-B-C. All prerequisites require a grade of C- or better.
Enrollment Comments: Quarters usually offered: Summer. Course materials fee charged.
Intensive hands-on training in the collection, interpretation, and presentation of geologic field data. Preparation of geologic maps, sections, and a professional report as tools to understanding geologic processes. Area and focus of investigation changes each year.
EARTH 119.
Field Investigations in Geology
(2-6)
GANS, COTTLE, HACKER, BURBANK
Prerequisite: Earth 103, 104A & 104B; one course from Earth 102A-B-C. All prerequisites requires a grade of C- or better.
Enrollment Comments: Course materials fee charged.
Selected field areas are investigated as research problems. Content varies from year to year.
EARTH 120.
Field Paleobiology
(1-4)
AWRAMIK, TIFFNEY
Prerequisite: Geology 111 and 111L or equivalent.
Enrollment Comments: May be repeated for credit to maximum of 12 units, but only 4 units may be applied toward the major.
Paleontologic field studies in selected areas. Studies include the collection, identification, and description of fossils, their systematics, paleoecology, and biostratigraphy.
EARTH 121.
Principles of Evolution
(4)
SWEET
Prerequisite: MCDB 1A, MCDB 1B, EEMB 2 and EEMB 3 or EARTH 2 and 3; Completion of all listed prerequisites with a grade of C- or better.
Enrollment Comments: Same course as EEMB 131. Not open for credit to students who have completed Biology 131.
A foundation course concerning the mechanisms of evolution at micro- and macroevolutionary levels, and interpretation of the resulting patterns of adaptation and organic diversity.
EARTH 122.
Sedimentation and Stratigraphy: Processes and Products
(5)
SIMMS
Prerequisite: Earth 2; and Earth 3; and Earth 104A; and Earth 114. Field trip required.
Enrollment Comments: Concurrently offered with Earth 222. Letter-grade required to apply toward major. Course materials fee required.
Transport/depositional processes, sedimentary textures and structures. Sedimentary environments, using facies models for observation & prediction. Principles of lithostratigraphy, biostratigraphy, chronostratigraphy, and magnetostratigraphy. Seismic stratigraphy and sequence stratigraphic principles. Controls of tectonics, sediment supply and eustacy on sedimentation. Lab and Lecture.
EARTH 123.
The Solar System
(4)
SPERA
Prerequisite: Sophomore standing or higher
Recommended Preparation: Earth 2 and Astronomy 1 or 2.
The nature and evolution of the planets of the solar system. Elementary treatment of cosmochemistry, meteoritics, and comparative planetology with special reference to current ideas on solar system evolution.
EARTH 124G.
Geochronology
(2)
MATTINSON
Prerequisite: Chemistry 1A; and, Geology 2, or 3, or 4, or 4S.
Recommended Preparation: Geology 14 or 114 or 114A-B.
Principles of radiogenic isotope geochronology, and applications of the major geochronological methods to terrestrial and extraterrestrial problems ranging from global climate change to petrology to tectonics to solar system evolution. This is a five week course.
EARTH 124I.
Biogeochemistry of Stable and Cosmogenic Isotopes
(4)
WELDEAB
Prerequisite: Chemistry 1C; Mathematics 3A, Earth 2 or 3 or 4 or 4S.
Enrollment Comments: Concurrently offered with EARTH 224I.
Introduction to stable isotope biogeochemistry, including kinetic and thermodynamic fractionation of stable isotopes during evapo-precipitation, photosynthesis, and biogenic calcification. Applications of stable isotope in environmental sciences, Quarternary geology, paleoclimate, archeology. Introduction to mass spectrometry, cosmogenic and radiogenic isotopes and their application in paleoclimatology/paleoceanography.
EARTH 124IG.
Introduction to Geochemistry
(4)
CLARK, JACKSON, WELDEAB
Prerequisite: Earth 2 or 4; and, Earth 114; and, Chemistry 1A; and, Math 3A-B
Enrollment Comments: Concurrently offered with EARTH 224IG.
Fundamental concepts of geochemistry including radiometric dating, inorganic chemistry, and biogeochemical cycling are introduced. The class examines how chemical principles can be used to solve geological and environmental problems. These concepts are illustrated using classical geology, global change, and hydrology.
EARTH 124T.
Introductory Thermodynamics
(2)
BOLES, HACKER
Prerequisite: Chemistry 1C; Mathematics 3B; Geology 2.
Introduction to thermodynamics and kinetics of rock-water systems. Calculation of mineral equilibria as a function of pressure temperature and fluid compositions. Applied problems at surface and subsurface conditions.
EARTH 125.
FIELD METHODS IN HYDROLOGY
(4)
CLARK
Prerequisite: Either Earth 173 or Geography 116 or consent of instructor.
Introduction to general field techniques used in hydrology including methods to determine river discharge, basic well and spring sampling, well water level measurements, and soil hydraulic characterization. The ~2 week class takes place at Sagehen Creek Field Station (north of Truckee, CA) in the eastern Sierra prior to the start of the Fall quarter.
EARTH 126.
Chemical Thermodynamics for Geoscientists
(4)
SPERA
Prerequisite: Chemistry 1C; Mathematics 3B; Earth 114.
Enrollment Comments: Concurrently offered with 226. Quarters usually offered: Spring.
Classical chemical thermodynamics with a focus on applications to practical problems in the geosciences, environmental sciences, and planetary sciences. This class provides a rigorous theoretical foundation while also proving beneficial for earth and planetary scientists seeking a review of thermodynamic principles and their application to geological problems.
EARTH 127.
Field Petrology
(4)
RIOUX
Prerequisite: Earth 104A and Earth 114; consent of instructor. All prerequisites require a grade of C or better.
Enrollment Comments: Concurrently offered with Earth 227. Course materials fee charged.
Field-based study of igneous, metamorphic and tectonic processes. Investigates different topics in igneous and metamorphic petrology each year, centered around field trips to key localities. Includes lectures, review of scientific literature, on-campus labs and field-based observations and measurements.
EARTH 130.
Global Warming - Science and Society
(4)
LEA
Prerequisite: Sophomore standing or higher.
Recommended Preparation: A beginning life of physical sciences course such as Geography 3A or Earth 4.
Introduction to the scientific and societal issues surrounding global climate change. Includes introduction to physical climatology, greenhouse effect, climate history, anthropogenic changes, and future predictions. Student discussion and debate on the potential societal scenarios available to mitigate future climate change.
EARTH 131.
Geophysical Time-Series Analysis
(5)
MATOZA
Prerequisite: Mathematics 3A-B and 4A-B; and Mathematics 6A (may be taken concurrently); and Physics 6A-B-C, or Physics 1 and 2.
Recommended Preparation: Basic proficiency in MATLAB or PythonEnrollment Comments: Concurrently offered with Earth 231.
Time-series analysis and digital-signal processing for geophysicists. Course combines theory with practical application using MATLAB and/or Python. Topics include: sampling, the discrete Fourier transform, aliasing, convolution, filtering, power spectral density estimation, multivariate time-series analysis, and array processing.
EARTH 133.
Plate tectonics and mantle dynamics
(4)
EILON
Prerequisite: Earth 2; Mathematics 3A-B-C or 3A-B and 4A-B; Mathematics 5A or 5C or 6A (may be taken concurrently); Physics 1 and 2, or Physics 6AB- C. Participants should have upper-division standing or consent of instructor.
An advanced undergraduate course that takes a quantitative, physics-based approach to covering the details of plate tectonics and mantle dynamics. Using derivations at the level of Turcotte and Schubert (3Ed., 2014), the course gives undergraduates a high level understanding of the principles that govern plate strength, and the connections between plates and Earth's deep interior. Weekly lectures cover course material, while readings and take-home assignments help reinforce the concepts covered in class; discussion sections give participants the opportunity to talk through the assignments and the readings and to work through practical problem sets.
EARTH 134.
Introduction to Geological and Geophysical Data Analysis
(4)
TANIMOTO
Prerequisite: Mathematics 2A-B or 3A-B; and Mathematics 4A-B.
Enrollment Comments: Designed for majors.
Various numerical methods for analysis of data are developed. Methods are statistical inference, error propagation, least squares, time series as applied to geological and geophysical examples. Lab and lecture.
EARTH 135.
Principles of Geophysics
(4)
TANIMOTO, JI
Prerequisite: Mathematics 3A-B-C or 3A-B and 4A-B; and Mathematics 5A or 5C or 6A (may be taken concurrently); and, Physics 1 and 2, or Physics 6A-B-C.
Recommended Preparation: Geology 100 or Earth 100 highly recommendedEnrollment Comments: Concurrently offered with EARTH 235.
Basic principles in geophysics from elasticity theory, fluid dynamics, gravity, magnetism, and heat flow. Their applications to various processes in the earth.
EARTH 136.
Geophysics (Seismology)
(5)
ARCHULETA, TANIMOTO
Prerequisite: Mathematics 3A-B-C or 3A-B and 4A-B; and, Mathematics 5A or 5C or 6A (may be taken concurrently); and, Physics 6A-B-C, or Physics 1 and 2.
Recommended Preparation: Mathematics 5A or 5C or 6A (may be taken concurrently). Geology 100 or Earth 100 highly recommended.Enrollment Comments: Concurrently offered with EARTH 236.
Wave propagation in an elastic medium; reflection and refraction, attenuation physics of the earthquake source, magnitude, seismic moment and focal mechanisms.
EARTH 137.
Quantitative Geomorphology
(5)
STAFF
Prerequisite: Geography 3B; or Earth 2
Recommended Preparation: Basic knowledge of MATLABEnrollment Comments: Concurrently offered with EARTH 237. Concurrently offered with Earth 237.
Basic quantitative understanding of processes shaping Earth's surface. In-depth evaluation of hill slope diffusion, mass wasting, and fluvial processes. Applications of quantitative methods are emphasized throughout class. Laboratory provides understanding of isotopic, physical, and remote sensing data.
EARTH 141.
Plant Paleobiology
(4)
TIFFNEY
Prerequisite: Upper-division standing.
Recommended Preparation: Geology 111 or EEMB 136.Enrollment Comments: Concurrently offered with Geology 241. Same course as EEMB 137. Letter grade required for majors. Not open for credit to students who have completed Botany 110.
Examination of the history of land plants; the systematics, morphology, and phylogeny of major groups. Major evolution and biogeographic patterns.
EARTH 141L.
Plant Paleobiology Laboratory
(1)
TIFFNEY
Prerequisite: Geology 141 or EEMB 137 (may be taken concurrently).
Enrollment Comments: Same course as EEMB 137L. Letter grade required for majors. Not open for credit to students who have completed Botany 110L.
Anatomy, morphology, and systematics of fossil plants from the specimens.
EARTH 143.
The Early Evolution of Life and its Environmental Context
(4)
PORTER
Prerequisite: MCDB 1A & MCDB 1B & EEMB 2 & EEMB 3 (all with a minimum grade of C- or better) or Earth 3 or 30 or 111
Enrollment Comments: Concurrently offered with Earth 243 . Quarters usually offered: Spring, Fall.
The first 3.5 billion years of life and the environmental context in which it evolved. Highly multidisciplinary, drawing on evidence from geology, geochemistry, paleontology, and comparative biology.
EARTH 144.
Invertebrate Paleobiology
(4)
PORTER
Prerequisite: MCDB 1A & MCDB 1B & EEMB 2 & EEMB 3 or Earth 3 or 30 or 111 (all with a minimum grade of C- or better)
Enrollment Comments: Concurrently offered with Earth 244. Quarters usually offered: Spring.
Important topics in paleobiology are discussed in the context of the evolutionary history of invertebrate animal life. These include macroevolutionary theory, diversification and extinction events, ecological and geobiological interactions through time, and the incompleteness of the fossil record.
EARTH 148.
Vertebrate Paleontology
(4)
WYSS
Prerequisite: Geology 2 or 3 or 7 or 30, or MCDB 1A-1AL or EEMB 2.
Enrollment Comments: Same course as EEMB 109. Letter grade required for majors.
Introduction to the history of vertebrate life, with emphasis on the phylogenetic relationships of the major vertebrate groups.
EARTH 149.
The History of Mammals
(4)
WYSS
Prerequisite: Geological Sciences 3 or 7 or 30, or MCDB 1A-1AL; or EEMB 2.
Enrollment Comments: Concurrently offered with Geology 243.
Introduction to the diversity of fossil and living mammals from phylogenetic, stratigraphic, and paleobiogeographic perspectives.
EARTH 150.
Petroleum Geology
(4)
WELDEAB
Prerequisite: Earth 2 and Earth 114.
Recommended Preparation: Earth 124T and 122.Enrollment Comments: Concurrently offered with Earth 250. Field/Lab, 3 hours. Course material fee charged.
Study of petroleum systems including origin, generation, migration, and trapping of hydrocarbons. Guest speakers from industry. Lab includes use of basin analysis software from oil company. Field trip to active petroleum basin in California. Required written report.
EARTH 154.
Advanced Igneous Petrology
(4)
SPERA
Prerequisite: Earth 114.
The study of magma dynamics and igneous rocks including petrogeny with an emphais on petrography, physical chemistry and dynamics. Offered alternate years.
EARTH 155.
Petrotectonics
(4)
HACKER
Prerequisite: Earth 114 and 115 and 102C; concurrent enrollment in Earth 155L.
Recommended Preparation: Earth 124T.Enrollment Comments: Concurrently offered with Earth 264. May be repeated for credit to a maximum of 8 units. Course materials fee required.
Analysis of orogenic belts using petrography, thermochronology, and thermobarometry. Subject material changes each year.
EARTH 155L.
Petrotectonics Lab
(1-2)
HACKER
Prerequisite: Geology 14 or 114 or 114A and 114B; and Geology 15, 102C, and 102CL; concurrent enrollment in Geology 155.
Enrollment Comments: Concurrently offered with Geology 264L. May be repeated for credit to a maximum of 4 units. Course fee charged.
Analysis of orogenic belts using petrography, structural petrology, thermochronology, and thermobarometry.
EARTH 156.
Tectonic Controls on Sedimentation
(4)
BUSBY
Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.
Integrates sedimentology, volcanology, structural geology, petrology, and geophysics in the study of basins. Overview of divergent, convergent, and strike slip margins, with textbook readings. Journal readings and field trip to case study area, which changes yearly. Field work completed on weekends and over spring break.
EARTH 157.
Plate Tectonics
(4)
STAFF
Prerequisite: Earth 2; upper-division standing.
Recommended Preparation: one year of university-level mathematics and physics.Enrollment Comments: Concurrently offered with Earth 235. Course materials fee required.
Introduction to sea floor spreading, plate tectonics, and continental drift. Geometry and evolution of present day plates. Measurement and calculation of plate motions. Geophysical and geological implications of resulting relative motions at plate boundaries.
EARTH 157X.
Advanced Plate Tectonics Seminar
(4)
STAFF
Prerequisite: Earth 157 (may be taken concurrently).
Discuss current research in plate tectonics. Supplements material covered in Earth 157.
EARTH 158.
Advanced Structural Geology
(5)
GANS
Prerequisite: Earth 103.
Enrollment Comments: Course materials fee charged.
Analysis of geologic-structures--theory and practice. Rock deformation as a function of crustal environment. Fault mechanics and earthquakes; mineral deformation mechanisms; microstructures, and tectonite fabrics. Finite strain measurement and interpretation of kinematic indicators. Regional structural styles.
EARTH 159.
Origin of the Earth
(4)
SPERA
Prerequisite: Earth 123; and, Physics 6A or 1 (may be taken concurrently).
Enrollment Comments: Concurrently offered with Earth 239.
Origin of the earth from the perspective of planetary genesis and the history of the solar nebula. Geochemistry and cosmochemistry of ancient solar system materials; accretion and earliest history of the earth-moon system.
EARTH 159A.
Origin of the Earth
(4)
SPERA
Prerequisite: Geology 123; and, Physics 6A or 1 (may be taken concurrently).
Enrollment Comments: Concurrently offered with Geology 239A.
Origin of the earth from the perspective of planetary genesis and the history of the solar nebula. Geochemistry and cosmochemistry of ancient solar system materials; accretion and earliest history of the earth-moon system.
EARTH 159C.
The Early Evolution of Life and its Environmental Context
(4)
PORTER
Prerequisite: Geology 3 or 30 or 111.
Enrollment Comments: Course fee charged.
The first 3.5 billion years of life and the environmental context in which it evolved. Highly multidisciplinary, drawing on evidence from geology, geochemistry, paleontology, and comparative biology.
EARTH 160.
Seminar in Geology
(1)
STAFF
Recommended Preparation: upper-division standing.Enrollment Comments: Concurrently offered with Earth 260 and 268. May be repeated to a maximum of 12 units.
Attendance at departmental "journal club" (Earth 260, seminar in geology) and brief written evaluations of the three papers which, in the student's judgement, were the best of the quarter.
EARTH 160W.
Scientific writing for the Earth Sciences
(4)
RIOUX, WYSS, STAFF
Prerequisite: Earth 2
Enrollment Comments: Students may not enroll in both Earth 160W and Earth 160 in the same quarter.
Introduction to written and verbal communication skills in the Earth Sciences. Students attend the weekly department colloquium or other Earth Science related presentations, and read and discuss related articles. Weekly assignments develop scientific writing skills.
EARTH 161.
Earth Resources, Energy and the Environment
(4)
MACDONALD
Prerequisite: Not open to freshmen.
Enrollment Comments: Course materials fee charged. Field Trip required.
An overview of the energy resources that sustain our economies and their environmental impact. Explores the full life cycle of each resource including its geological origins, methods used to explore and develop it, uses in our economies, and the environmental impacts of these activities.
EARTH 162.
Marine Micropaleontology and Paleobiology
(4)
STAFF
Prerequisite: Upper-division standing.
Enrollment Comments: Concurrently offered with Geology 262.
A survey of the major marine microfossil groups of the Cenozoic and Mesozoic; with particular reference to classification, preservation, evolution, stratigraphic utility, paleobiology, biogeography, paleoceanographic relations and sediment accumulation.
EARTH 163.
Organic Matters
(4)
RAVEN
Prerequisite: CHEM 1C
Recommended Preparation: Earth 114Enrollment Comments: Concurrently offered with Earth 263.
An introduction to the chemistry of natural organic matter in the ocean, biosphere, and geosphere. Topics include marine organic carbon production and export, fossil fuel formation, tools for identifying ancient life and paleo-environmental conditions (biomarkers, isotopes), and the global impacts of organic carbon burial on global biogeochemical cycles.
EARTH 164B.
Earth System Ocean-Atmosphere
(4)
LEA, VALENTINE
Prerequisite: Chemistry 1C.
Recommended Preparation: Earth 4 or equivalent.
An introduction to the chemistry of the ocean and atmosphere. Topics include composition of seawater, biogeochemical cycling, sediment chemistry, chemical tracers of circulation, ocean-atmosphere exchange, atmospheric photochemistry and pollution, and the impact of earth system chemical changes on climate.
EARTH 164C.
Earth System History
(4)
STAFF
Prerequisite: Upper-division standing.
Examination of the evolution of the Earth's environmental system from Cretaceous to present day; interactions between plate tectonics and orogeny (lithosphere) and changes in ocean circulation (hydrosphere), climate (atmosphere), ice sheets (cryosphere), and life (biosphere). Globalchange theories.
EARTH 168.
Aqueous Transport of Pollutants
(4)
CLARK
Prerequisite: Mathematics 3B and Chemistry 1A-B-C.
Recommended Preparation: Earth 113 or 173, or Geography 116 or 144, or Environmental Studies 144.Enrollment Comments: Same course as Environmental Studies 168.
Focus on the behavior of dissolved species in rivers. Examination of the basic advection-diffusion model. Particular emphasis on field data.
EARTH 169.
Tracer and Contaminant Hydrology
(4)
CLARK
Prerequisite: Mathematics 3B and Chemistry 1A-B-C.
Recommended Preparation: Earth 113 or 173, or Geography 116 or 144, or Environmental Studies 144.Enrollment Comments: Concurrently offered with Earth 269. Same course as Environmental Studies 169.
Introduction to principles of chemical and isotope tracer hydrology. Emphasis on methods of groundwater dating, the use of tracers as management tools, and contaminate plume monitoring.
EARTH 173.
Groundwater Hydrology
(5)
LOAICIGA
Prerequisite: GEOG 3B or 4 or EARTH 2; or consent of instructor.
Enrollment Comments: Same course as Geography 116.
Analysis of groundwater flow in complex geologic environments, aquifer properties, wells and groundwater contamination, surface water-groundwater interactions. Laboratory: basic groundwater experiments, Darcy's law, flow nets, solute dispersion, field measurements of bedrock groundwater, analysis of pumping-test data.
EARTH 175.
Introduction to MATLAB for Earth Scientists
(4)
EILON, MATOZA
A 10-week introduction to coding in MATLAB including: basic programming, analysis using vectors and matrices, logical operations and indexing, data import/export, visualization and plotting, designing functions and packages, interactive user interface, and debugging.
EARTH 176.
Geological Applications of GIS
(4)
STAFF
Recommended Preparation: Earth 103 and Earth 134Enrollment Comments: Designed for majors. Course Material fee charged
An intensive introduction to Geographic Information Systems (GIS) with an emphasis on geological applications, including geologic mapping, topographic analysis, modeling surface processes and river networks, importation and interpolation of field data, and spatial analysis and correlation of multiple geologic datasets. Short Lectures are interspersed with the Lab exercises.
EARTH 177.
Ore Deposits and Mineral Resources
(4)
GANS, COTTLE
Prerequisite: Earth 2; Earth 114
Recommended Preparation: Earth 115, 124GT, 102A or 102CEnrollment Comments: Concurrently offered with 277. Course materials fee charged.
Distribution and characteristics of major classes of mineral deposits - their geologic framework, mineralogy, and structure. Lectures explore petrogenetic models for ore-formation. Laboratory exercises and field trips stress recognition of ore and accessory minerals, zoning, and exploration strategies.
EARTH 181.
Field Trips in Earth Science
(2-12)
STAFF
Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.
Enrollment Comments: Concurrently offered with Earth 281. Course materials fee charged
Opportunity to see classic geological localities in the field. Locations vary depending on instructor(s). Lectures through the quarter cover background material needed to understand what is being observed/studied in the field. This material includes specified readings, homework assignments, exercises and exams. Lab work may also be required. Lecture, 3 hours; field, up to 6 weeks.
EARTH 182A.
Field Studies in Marine Bio/Geochemistry
(2-12)
VALENTINE
Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.
Enrollment Comments: Concurrently offered with EARTH 282A. Course materials fee charged.
Marine bio/geochemistry with the opportunity of going to sea or into the field on land. Lectures cover techniques of sea- floor mapping using bottom photography, marine bio/geochemical sampling, and method of data reduction and sample analysis. Labs include analysis of data/samples collected. Lecture, 3 hours; labs, up to 7 hours; field, up to 6 weeks.
EARTH 182B.
Field Studies in Marine Bio/Geochemistry
(2-12)
VALENTINE
Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.
Enrollment Comments: Concurrently offered with EARTH 282B. Course materials fee charged.
Marine bio/geochemistry with the opportunity of going to sea or into the field on land. Lectures cover techniques of sea- floor mapping using bottom photography, marine bio/geochemical sampling, and method of data reduction and sample analysis. Labs include analysis of data/samples collected. Lecture, 3 hours; lab, up to 7 hours; field, up to 6 weeks.
EARTH 182E.
Field Studies in Marine Geochemistry
(2-12)
HAYMON
Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.
Enrollment Comments: Concurrently offered with Geology 282.
Marine geochemistry with the opportunity of going to sea or into the field on land. Lectures cover techniques of sea-floor mapping using bottom photography, marine geochemical sampling, and method of data reduction and sample analysis. Labs include analysis of data/samples collected.
EARTH 183.
Advanced Field Mapping and Geologic Investigations
(4)
GANS
Prerequisite: Earth 118 or equivalent.
Enrollment Comments: Concurrently offered with Earth 283. Course materials fee charged.
Research oriented mapping projects to solve outstanding problem(s) in a geologically significant area. Two weeks in the field, followed by compilation and complimentary laboratory studies. Weekly meetings to discuss results.
EARTH 185.
Physical Volcanology
(4)
GANS, BUSBY
Prerequisite: Earth 104A, 114, and 115 (or Instructor Approval).
Recommended Preparation: Earth 103.Enrollment Comments: Concurrently offered with Earth 285. Course material fee charged.
Overview of volcanic processes, including physical properties of melts, eruptive mechanisms, classification of volcanic deposits, and volcanic- tectonic environments. Lecture emphasizes theoretical aspects of volcanic processes, lab examines major classes of volcanic rocks, field trips emphasize mapping in volcanic terrains.
EARTH 186.
Cordilleran Tectonics
(4)
GANS
Prerequisite: Earth 2, 3, and 104A.
Enrollment Comments: Concurrently offered with Earth 286. Course Material fee charged.
Directed readings, weekly seminar, and field trip focused on the phanerozoic tectonic evolution of the North American Cordillera. Emphasis on understanding fundamental orogenic processes (continental extension, shortening, transcurrent motions, magmatism, metamorphism) from a cordilleran perspective.
EARTH 187.
Introduction to Teaching in Geological Sciences
(1-5)
STAFF
Prerequisite: Upper-division standing and consent of instructor.
Enrollment Comments: May be repeated for credit to a maximum of 8 units, but only 4 units may be applied to the major.
Students will assist instructors in teaching course in which the student previously received a grade of A- or better. Activities will be determined in consultation with the instructor and may include assisting in laboratories, tutorials, discussion sections and field trips.
EARTH 189.
Seminar in Paleobiology
(1-4)
AWRAMIK, TIFFNEY, WYSS, PORTER
Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.
Enrollment Comments: May be repeated for credit to a maximum of 12 units.
Undergraduate seminar in advanced paleobiology involving reading and group discussion of current literature. Option to (with faculty consent) write research papers of varying length or equivalent.
EARTH 190.
Advanced Studies in Paleobiology
(1-4)
AWRAMIK, TIFFNEY, WYSS, PORTER
Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.
Enrollment Comments: May be repeated for a maximum of 12 units. Course materials fee charged.
Designed to meet the interests and needs of individual students. Selected readings and laboratory work in systematic paleontology; field studies of recent or fossil biotas; animal-substrate relations, biostatistics, etc.
EARTH 192.
Internship in Geological Sciences
(1-4)
STAFF
Prerequisite: Proposal form must be submitted by the end of the 2nd week of the quarter. Applicant must have a minimum overall GPA of 2.70. Student that does not meet this requirement may submit a GPA waiver.
Enrollment Comments: Designed for majors. Quarters usually offered: Winter, Spring, Fall. May be repeated for credit to a maximum of 12 units, but only 4 units may be applied toward the major.
Individualized practical approaches to problems in geological sciences by working under faculty supervision as interns with local, state or federal agencies or private organizations. To receive credit student must turn in an experiential journal, end of quarter evaluation, and complete the internship hours. Units are determined by the number to be completed at the end of the quarter.
EARTH 194AAZZ.
Group Studies for Advanced Students
(1-5)
STAFF
Prerequisite: Upper-division standing; consent of instructor.
Enrollment Comments: Students may repeat the course; no more than five units will apply to the major.
Intensive research or study by a small group of advanced students who share an interest in a topic not included in the regular departmental curriculum.
EARTH 194BG.
Seminar in Biogeochemistry
EARTH 194BT.
Group Studies for Advanced Students
EARTH 194CC.
Carbon Cycle Seminar
EARTH 194DE.
Group Studies for Advanced Students
EARTH 194DL.
Group Studies for Advanced Students
EARTH 194EK.
Group Studies for Advanced Students
EARTH 194GC.
Seminar in Geoscience Careers
EARTH 194GM.
Geomaterials lab
EARTH 194ML.
Intro to Matlab for Earth Scientists
EARTH 194SP.
Group Studies for Advanced Students
EARTH 194TT.
Group Studies for Advanced Students
EARTH 194ZE.
Group Studies for Advanced Students
EARTH 195H.
Honors Field Studies
(1-8)
STAFF
Prerequisite: Earth Science majors only; honors standing; consent of instructor.
Enrollment Comments: May be repeated for credit to a maximum of 8 units. Course materials fee charged.
Field work in selected areas under the direction of a faculty member. Final report required.
EARTH 196HA.
Senior Honors Thesis
(4)
STAFF
Prerequisite: Earth Science majors only; consent of instructor; honors standing (minimum overall and major GPA of 3.2).
Three quarter individual research project under the direction of a faculty member. Oral defense of written thesis as required by the sponsoring faculty advisor.
EARTH 196HB.
Senior Honors Thesis
(4)
STAFF
Prerequisite: Earth Science majors only; consent of instructor; honors standing (minimum overall and major GPA of 3.2).
Three quarter individual research project under the direction of a faculty member. Oral defense of written thesis as required by the sponsoring faculty advisor.
EARTH 196HC.
Senior Honors Thesis
(4)
STAFF
Prerequisite: Earth Science majors only; consent of instructor.
Three quarter individual research project under the direction of a faculty member. Oral defense of written thesis as required by the sponsoring faculty advisor.
EARTH 197H.
Honors Seminar in Geology
(1)
STAFF
Prerequisite: Honors standing; consent of instructor.
Enrollment Comments: May be repeated for credit to a maximum of 4 units.
Bi-monthly, two-hour seminar to discuss advanced topics in the geological sciences. Guest speakers.
EARTH 198.
Readings in the Geological Sciences
(1-4)
STAFF
Prerequisite: Upper-division standing; consent of the instructor and the department chair
Enrollment Comments: Students must have a minimum 3.0 grade-point average for the preceding three quarters. May be repeated for credit, but only 4 units count toward major. Students are limited to 5 units per quarter and 30 units total in all 98/99/198/199/199AA-ZZ courses combined.
Critical reviews and discussions of selected geological subjects.
EARTH 199.
Independent Studies in Geology
(1-5)
STAFF
Prerequisite: Upper-division standing in the major; consent of department and instructor.
Enrollment Comments: Students must have a 3.0 grade-point-average for the preceding three quarters. Students are limited to 5 units per quarter, 15 units per year, and 30 units total in all 98/99/198/199/199AA-ZZ courses combined.
Course consists of academic research supervised by a faculty member. This course is not intended for internship honors, or Senior Thesis credit.
EARTH 199RA.
Independent Research Assistance in Geological Sciences
(1-5)
STAFF
Prerequisite: Upper-division standing; consent of instructor.
Enrollment Comments: Students must have a 3.0 grade-point-average for the preceding three quarters and are limited to 5 units per quarter and 30 units total in all 98/99/198/199/199AA-ZZ courses combined.
Coursework shall consist of faculty supervised research assistance.
EARTH 200.
Introduction to Geophysics
(5)
ARCHULETA, LUYENDYK, MACDONALD
Prerequisite: Graduate standing; consent of department.
Enrollment Comments: Concurrently offered with Geology 100.
Survey of major topics in geophysics at an elementary level; the figure of the earth, its gravitational and magnetic fields, seismology and the deep structure of the earth, heat flow, methods of geophysical exploration. The geophysical basis of plate tectonics and sea floor spreading. Term paper.
EARTH 201A.
Graduate Research and Field Seminar
(4)
STAFF
Enrollment Comments: Required of all entering graduate students. Course materials fee charged.
Field, laboratory, and analytical projects serve as an introduction to diverse research foci and techniques in Earth Science.
EARTH 201B.
Graduate Research Seminar
(4)
STAFF
Prerequisite: Earth Science 201A; graduate standing in the department of Earth Science.
Enrollment Comments: Required course for all first year graduate students.
Conducting research in Earth science: identifying significant problems; designing effective studies; obtaining funding; writing and evaluating research proposals; following scientific ethics; using numerical estimation; and making effective oral and written presentations.
EARTH 201C.
Mathematical Methods in Earth Science
(4)
LISIECKI
Introduces Matlab for plotting and analyzing geologic data and modeling geologic systems. Each student will select data relevant to his/her research for computer exercises. Topics include statistics, Monte Carlo simulations, time series analysis, principal component analysis (EOF), and box models.
EARTH 202.
Writing for Publication in Earth Science
(4)
LISIECKI
Prerequisite: None
Enrollment Comments: Quarters usually offered: Spring.
Reading assignments and discussion will focus on how to write articles for publication in peer-reviewed journals, particularly with respect to style and organization. Students will submit weekly writing assignments and receive feedback from the professor and their peers.
EARTH 205.
Earth?s Climate: Past and Present
(4)
LEA, LISIECKI
Enrollment Comments: Concurrently offered with EARTH 105.
Description and quantitative analysis of climate processes and paleoclimate proxies. Processes include radiation and the Earth?s energy budget, the influence of orbital cycles, ocean circulation, monsoons, ENSO, and ice sheets. Paleoclimate reconstructions from tectonic-scale to the last millennium, with emphasis on glacial cycles and Plio- Pleistocene climate evolution.
EARTH 206.
Introduction to Climate Modeling
(4)
LISIECKI
Prerequisite: None
Enrollment Comments: Concurrently offered with Earth 106. Quarters usually offered: Winter, Fall.
An introduction to climate models and their application to studies of past, modern, and future climate. Students will learn fundamental modeling concepts, gain experience running several kinds of models, and read/evaluate recent modeling papers. A variety of models will be introduced, with emphasis on atmosphere-ocean General Circulation Models (GCMs) and "simple" (zero-dimensional) models. No previous modeling or programming experience is required.
EARTH 208.
Clastic Depositional Environments
(4)
BUSBY
Prerequisite: Geology 102B.
Enrollment Comments: Course materials fee required.
Emphasis on tectonically active settings, topics change yearly. Clastic depositional models for alluvial fan, fan delta, and turbidite fans. Volcaninclastic successions, including subaerial- to deepwater-erupted pyroclastic rocks and lava flows, as well as volcanic mudflows and sandstones. Field work completed on weekends and over spring break.
EARTH 209.
Tectonic Controls of Sedimentation
(5)
BUSBY
Prerequisite: Geology 2, 102A-B-C, and 122.
Enrollment Comments: Course materials fee required.
Integrates sedimentology, volcanology, structural geology, petrology, and geophysics in the study of basins. Overview of divergent, convergent, and strike slip margins, with textbook readings. Journal readings and field trip to case study area, which changes yearly. Field work completed on weekends or over spring break.
EARTH 210.
Paleoecology
(1-4)
TIFFNEY
Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.
Reading and discussion of the interactions of organisms and organisms, and of organisms and the environment, in the fossil record. Specific topics vary. Term paper required if taken for four units.
EARTH 213.
Geochemistry II
(1-4)
MATTINSON
Prerequisite: Chemistry 1C, Mathematics 3C, and Geology 2 or equivalent.
Enrollment Comments: Concurrently offered.
An introduction to the geochemistry of the earth and solar system; especially applications of radiogenic isotopes to problems of magma genesisand age determination. Presentation of a seminar or term paper selected in consultation with instructor is required.
EARTH 215.
Isotope Geochemistry
(4)
JACKSON
Prerequisite: EARTH 124IG or equivalent
Course will develop isotopic systems as tracers of Earth processes, with a particular focus placed on developing radiogenic isotopic systems. The isotopic tools will be used to establish the chronology of the earliest terrestrial events and the formation and evolution of different reservoirs in the Earth. Applications of isotopic systems to solid Earth evolution, petrology, paleoclimate and ocean chemistry will be explored.
EARTH 216.
Advanced Topics in Stable Isotopy
(4)
STAFF
Prerequisite: Geological Sciences 124SI or 224SI or a similar course in stable isotopy.
Directed reading and weekly seminar in the misuses of stable isotopy, especially in its application to biology, archaeology, geology, paleontology, and paleoecology. The larger issue of misues of numeric data is also addressed.
EARTH 217.
Tectonic Geomorphology
(4)
BURBANK
Prerequisite: Geology 103 or 117 or equivalent.
Enrollment Comments: Course fee charged.
Interactions among geomorphic processes that shape the Earth's surface and tectonic processes that deform the upper crust. Use of new tools for geochronology, geodesy, structural geology, and landform analysis. Field trips and projects in Southern California.
EARTH 222.
Sedimentation and Stratigraphy: Processes and Products
(4)
SIMMS, BUSBY
Enrollment Comments: Concurrently offered with Earth 122. Course materials fee required. Concurrently offered with Earth122. No credit for students who have had Earth122. Students taking the class for graduate credit must complete an extra project (term paper or field exercise).
Transport/depositional processes, sedimentary textures and structures. Sedimentary environments and use of facies models for observation and prediction. Principles of lithostratigraphy, biostratigraphy, chronostratigraphy, and magnetostratigraphy. Seismic stratigraphy and sequence stratigraphic principles. Controls of tectonics, sediment supply and eustacy on sedimentation.
EARTH 224G.
Geochronology
(2)
MATTINSON
Prerequisite: Chemistry 1A; and, Geology 2, or 3, or 4, or 4S.
Recommended Preparation: Geology 14 or 114 or 114A-B.Enrollment Comments: Concurrently offered with Geology 124G.
Principles of radiogenic isotope geochronology, and applications of the major geochronological methods to terrestrial and extraterrestrial problems ranging from global climate change to petrology to tectonics to solar system evolution. This is a five week course.
EARTH 224I.
Biogeochemistry of Stable and Cosmogenic Isotopes
(4)
WELDEAB
Enrollment Comments: Concurrently offered with EARTH 124I.
Introduction to stable isotope biogeochemistry, including kinetic and thermodynamic fractionation of stable isotopes during evapo-precipitation, photosynthesis, and biogenic calcification. Applications of stable isotope in environmental sciences, Quarternary geology, paleoclimate, archeology. Introduction to mass spectrometry, cosmogenic and radiogenic isotopes and their application in paleoclimatology/paleoceanography.
EARTH 224IG.
Introduction to Geochemistry
(4)
CLARK, JACKSON, WELDEAB
Enrollment Comments: Concurrently offered with EARTH 124IG. Quarters usually offered: Winter.
Fundamental concepts of geochemistry including radiometric dating, inorganic chemistry, and biogeochemical cycling are introduced. The class examines how chemical principles can be used to solve geological and environmental problems. These concepts are illustrated using classical geology, global change, and hydrology.
EARTH 224T.
Introductory Thermodynamics
(2)
COTTLE, HACKER
Enrollment Comments: Concurrently offered with EARTH 124T.
Introduction to thermodynamics and kinetics of rock-water systems. Calculation of mineral equilibria as a function of pressure temperature and fluid compositions. Applied problems at surface and subsurface conditions.
EARTH 225.
Advanced Igneous Petrology
(5)
SPERA
Prerequisite: Geology 240A or equivalent.
The study of magma dynamics and igneous rocks including petrogeny with an emphasis on petrography, physical chemistry, and dynamics.
EARTH 226.
Chemical Thermodynamics for Geoscientists
(4)
SPERA
Prerequisite: Chemistry 1C; Mathematics 3B; Earth 114.
Enrollment Comments: Concurrently offered with 126T. Quarters usually offered: Spring.
Classical chemical thermodynamics with a focus on applications to practical problems in the geosciences, environmental sciences, and planetary sciences. This class provides a rigorous theoretical foundation while also proving beneficial for earth and planetary scientists seeking a review of thermodynamic principles and their application to geological problems.
EARTH 227.
Field Petrology
(4)
RIOUX
Prerequisite: Graduate standing; consent of department.
Enrollment Comments: Concurrently offered with Earth 127. Course materials fee charged.
Field-based study of igneous, metamorphic and tectonic processes. Investigates different topics in igneous and metamorphic petrology each year, centered around field trips to key localities. Includes lectures, review of scientific literature, on-campus labs and field-based observations and measurements.
EARTH 231.
Geophysical Time-Series Analysis
(5)
MATOZA
Prerequisite: Graduate standing; consent of department.
Enrollment Comments: Concurrently offered with Earth 131
Time-series analysis and digital-signal processing for geophysicists. Course combines theory with practical application using MATLAB and/or Python. Topics include: Sampling, the discrete Fourier transform, aliasing, convolution, filtering, power spectral density estimation, multivariate time-series analysis, and array processing. Students taking the class for graduate credit must complete an extra project (term paper).
EARTH 232.
Introduction to Computing for Earth Science
(4)
MATOZA
Prerequisite: Graduate standing; consent of instructor.
Enrollment Comments: Quarters usually offered: Fall.
Introduction to computing and common software tools in geophysics and related disciplines. Topics include: UNIX, Python and/or MATLAB, Fortran 90, Generic Mapping Tools (GMT), LaTeX, HTML and CSS web pages, etc.
EARTH 235.
Advanced Geophysics
(5)
TANIMOTO, JI
Enrollment Comments: Concurrently offered with Geology 135. Course materials fee required.
Application of geophysics principles to processes in the Earth. Use of gravity, elasticity theory, fluid dynamics, geomagnetism, and theory of heat transfer. Term paper required.
EARTH 236.
Geophysics Seismology
(5)
ARCHULETA, JI, TANIMOTO
Prerequisite: One year of college level calculus and physics.
Recommended Preparation: Mathematics 5A or 6A (may be taken concurrently).
Wave propagation in an elastic medium; reflection and refraction, attenuation. Physics of the earthquake source, magnitude, seismic moment and focal mechanisms.
EARTH 237.
Quantitative Geomorphology
(5)
BOOKHAGEN
Prerequisite: Geography 3B; or Earth Science 2
Recommended Preparation: Basic knowledge of MATLABEnrollment Comments: Concurrently offered with Geog 237, EARTH 137.
Basic quantitative understanding of processes shaping Earth's surface. In-depth evaluation of hill slope diffusion, mass wasting, and fluvial processes. Applications of quantitative methods are emphasized throughout class. Laboratory provides understanding of isotopic, physical, and remote sensing data.
EARTH 239.
Origin of the Earth
(4)
STAFF
Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.
Enrollment Comments: Concurrently offered with Geology 159.
Origin of the Earth from the perspective of planetary genesis and the history of the Solar Nebula. Geochemistry and cosmochemistry of ancient solar system materials; accretion and earliest history of the Earth-Moon system.
EARTH 240A.
Mineralogical Thermodynamics
(4)
SPERA
Prerequisite: Elementary thermodynamics or physical chemistry.
Derivation of thermodynamic equations of state for minerals and fluids. Thermodynamics of ideal and nonideal crystalline solutions. Development and application of thermodynamic data bases. Characterization of physical conditions for metamorphic and igneous rocks.
EARTH 241.
Plant Paleobiology
(4)
TIFFNEY
Examination of the history of land plants; the systematics, morphology, and phylogeny of major groups. Major evolutionary and biogeographic patterns. Extra readings and paper.
EARTH 243.
The Early Evolution of Life and its Environmental Context
(4)
PORTER
Enrollment Comments: Concurrently offered with Geology 143.
The first 3.5 billion years of life and the environmental context in which it evolved. Highly multidisciplinary, drawing on evidence from geology, geochemistry, paleontology, and comparative biology.
EARTH 244.
Invertebrate Paleobiology
(4)
PORTER
Important topics in paleobiology are discussed in the context of the evolutionary history of invertebrate animal life. These include macroevolutionary theory, diversification and extinction events, ecological and geobiological interactions through time, and the incompleteness of the fossil record.
EARTH 245.
Sequence Stratigraphy
(4)
SIMMS
Prerequisite: Earth 122 or 222 or equivalent
Recommended Preparation: Earth 108 or equivalentEnrollment Comments: Course materials fee required. Open to upper division undergraduates who meet prerequisites of Earth 122.
Fundamental concepts of sequence stratigraphy. Students will learn how to use seismic lines, core data, and stratigraphic columns to create a sequence stratigraphic framework for a basin and apply that framework to different geological problems. Fieldtrips will be required.
EARTH 247.
Seminar in Quaternary Geology
(4)
KELLER
Prerequisite: Geology 117.
Enrollment Comments: May be repeated for credit.
Selected topics in quaternary geology. Subject matter changes from year to year.
EARTH 248.
Vertebrate Paleontology
(4)
WYSS
Introduction to the history of vertebrate life, with emphasis on the phylogenetic relationships of the major vertebrate groups. Paper required.
EARTH 249.
History of Mammals
(4)
WYSS
Prerequisite: EARTH 3 or 7 or 11 or 30, or MCDB 5A-AL.
Enrollment Comments: Concurrently offered with EARTH 149.
Introduction to the diversity of fossil and living mammals from phylogenetic, stratigraphic, and paleobiogeographic perspectives. Required research paper.
EARTH 250.
Petroleum Geology
(4)
STAFF
Prerequisite: Geology 14 or 114 or 114A-B; and Geology 102B.
Enrollment Comments: Concurrently offered with Geology 150. Field/Lab, 3 hours. Course materials fee required.
Study of petroleum systems including origin, generation, migration, and trapping hydrocarbons. Guest speakers from industry. Field trip to active petroleum basin in California. Required written report.
EARTH 251A.
Matrix Analysis and Computation
(4)
STAFF
Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.
Enrollment Comments: Students should be proficient in basic numerical methods, linear algebra, mathematically rigorous proofs, and some programming language. Same course as Computer Science 211A, ME 210A, ECE 210A, and Chemical Engineering 211A.
Graduate level-matrix theory with introduction to matrix computations. SVD's, pseudoinverses, variational characterization of eigenvalues, perturbation theory, direct and iterative methods for matrix computations.
EARTH 251B.
Numerical Simulation
(4)
STAFF
Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.
Enrollment Comments: Students should be proficient in basic numerical methods, linear algebra, mathematically rigorous proofs, and some programming language. Same course as Computer Science 211B, ME 210B, ECE 210B, Chemical Engineering 211B, and Math 206B.
Linear multistep methods and Runge-Kutta methods for ordinary differential equations: stability, order and convergence. Stiffness. Differential algebraic equations. Numerical solution of boundary value problems.
EARTH 251C.
Numerical Solution of Partial Differential Equations--Finite Difference Methods
(4)
STAFF
Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.
Enrollment Comments: Students should be proficient in basic numerical methods, linear algebra, mathematically rigorous proofs, and some programming language. Same course as Computer Science 211C, ME 210C, ECE 210C, Chemical Engineering 211C, and Math 206C.
Finite difference methods for hyperbolic, parabolic and elliptic PDE's, with application to problems in science and engineering. Convergence, consistency, order and stability of finite difference methods. Dissipation and dispersion. Finite volume methods. Software design and adaptivity.
EARTH 251D.
Numerical Solution of Partial Differential Equations - Finite Element Methods
(4)
STAFF
Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.
Enrollment Comments: Students should be proficient in basic numerical methods, linear algebra, mathematically rigorous proofs, and some programming language. Same course as Computer Science 211D, ME 210D, ECE 210D, Chemical Engineering 211D, and Math 206D.
Weighted residual and finite element methods for the solution of hyperbolic, parabolic and elliptic partial differential equations, with application to problems in science and engineering. Error estimates. Standard and discontinuous Galerkin methods.
EARTH 252.
Seminar in Structure and Tectonics
(2-4)
STAFF
Prerequisite: Earth 201A
Topical structural geology and tectonics.
EARTH 253.
Mineral Separations Practicum
(2)
GANS
Enrollment Comments: Open to upper division undergraduates who meet prerequisites of Earth 2 and Earth 114
Learn to prepare high purity mineral separates (e.g., zircon, apatite, monazite, K-feldspar, mica, plagioclase) from rocks or sediments for geochronologic or petrologic purposes. Crushing, grinding, sieving, magnetic and density separations, acid treatments. Design safe and efficient separation strategies.
EARTH 254.
Advanced Seismology Seminar
(2)
ARCHULETA, TANIMOTO
Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.
Reading and class discussion of basic concepts and methods of seismology, current discoveries and unsolved problems.
EARTH 255.
Advanced Geophysics
(4)
STAFF
Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.
Selected topics in advanced geophysics, including seismology, seismo-acoustics and infrasound, gravity, magnetism, geodynamics, volcano geophysics, and the application of techniques for geophysical analysis.
EARTH 256.
Geophysical Inverse Theory
(4)
TANIMOTO
Prerequisite: Geology 136 and consent of instructor.
Introduction to basic concepts of inverse theory such as resolution, error and its trade-off. Application to earth structure study, earthquake source,geodetic data and magnetic field. Reading on key papers. Term paper.
EARTH 257.
Plate Tectonics Seminar
(4)
STAFF
Enrollment Comments: Concurrently offered with Geology 157. Course materials fee required.
Read recent related articles. Students present and discuss selected topics in separate seminar. Complete term paper and/or problem sets for three or four units.
EARTH 258.
Advanced Structural Geology
(5)
GANS
Prerequisite: Geology 103 and 104B.
Enrollment Comments: Concurrently offered. Course materials fee charged.
Analysis of geologic structures--theory and practice. Rock deformation as a function of crustal environment. Fault mechanics and earthquakes; mineral deformation mechanisms; microstructures, and tectonite fabrics. Finite strain measurement and interpretation of kinematic indicators. Regional structural styles.
EARTH 259.
Advanced Stratigraphic and Geomorphic Field Methods
(4)
BURBANK
Development of field observational skills and analytical techniques for both stratigraphic and geomorphic studies. Topics covered will include measuring stratigraphic sections, making 2- or 3-d stratigraphic panels and heirarchical analysis, facies and paleocurrent analysis; river discharge gauging, sediment discharge, topographic profiling/surveying, scarp diffusion, basin analysis in a paleomagnetic temporal framework, glacial geomorphology, channel initiation on hillslopes, and impacts of fire on slope stability and sediment delivery. Laboratories will focus on analysis of aerial photos, digital topography, and detrital ages. The course includes two 3-day field trips; a 1- day trip, and three half-day
EARTH 259C.
The Early Evolution of Life and its Environmental Context
(4)
PORTER
The first 3.5 billion years of life and the environmental context in which it evolved. Highly multidisciplinary, drawing on evidence from geology, geochemistry, paleontology, and comparative biology.
EARTH 260.
Seminar in Geology
(1)
STAFF,
Enrollment Comments: Concurrently offered with GEOL 160. Required of all first-year graduate students. May be repeated for credit.
Presentation and discussion of current research, and reviews of the literature on selected geologic concepts. Students present material reflecting their interests in geology for critical appraisal, of both content and manner of presentation, by selected members of the seminar. Emphasis is placed on assisting students in developing professional speaking style.
EARTH 260OR.
Earth Science Outreach
(1)
STAFF
Enrollment Comments: No units credits allowed towards degree
Active participation in an outreach program for local schools, presenting Earth Science concepts, demonstrations, samples and experiments to a diverse group of K-12 students, with the mission to ignite their interest in STEM, and make scientists more approachable.
EARTH 261.
Marine Stratigraphy
(3)
STAFF
Enrollment Comments: Open to graduates and qualified senior undergraduates. Short field trips.
Extensive reading and class discussion of concepts and methods of marine stratigraphy. Included are lithostratigraphy, biostratigraphy, chemostratigraphy, magnetostratigraphy, chronostratigraphy, and chronology. Stratigraphic nomenclature. Problems and advances in correlation and dating of sediments including the Pacific, California, and Europe. Term paper.
EARTH 262.
Marine Micropaleontology and Paleobiology
(4)
STAFF
A survey of the major marine microfossil groups of the cenozoic and mesozoic; with particular reference to classification, preservation, evolution, stratigraphic utility, paleobiology, biogeography, paleoceanographic relations, and sediment accumulation.
EARTH 263.
Organic Matters
(4)
RAVEN
Prerequisite: CHEM 1C
Recommended Preparation: Earth 114Enrollment Comments: Concurrently offered with Earth 163.
An introduction to the chemistry of natural organic matter in the ocean, biosphere, and geosphere. Topics include marine organic carbon production and export, fossil fuel formation, tools for identifying ancient life and paleo-environmental conditions (biomarkers, isotopes), and the global impacts of organic carbon burial on global biogeochemical cycles. Term paper required for graduate section.
EARTH 264.
Petrotectonics
(4)
HACKER
Prerequisite: Geology 102C.
Enrollment Comments: Concurrently offered. Course materials fee charged.
Analysis of orogenic belts using petrography, thermochronology, and thermobarometry. Subject material changes each year.
EARTH 264L.
Petrotectonics Laboratory
(1-2)
HACKER
Prerequisite: Geology 102C.
Recommended Preparation: Geology 124T.Enrollment Comments: Concurrently offered.
Analysis of orogenic belts using petrography, structural petrology, thermochronology, and thermobarometry.
EARTH 266.
Chemical Oceanography
(4)
LEA, DEVRIES
Prerequisite: Chemistry 1C; graduate standing.
An introduction to the chemistry of the oceans. Topics include composition and chemical equilibria of seawater, biogeochemical cycling, sediment chemistry, atmospheric exchange, circulation and rates of mixing based on chemical tracers, and the impact of ocean chemistry on climate change.
EARTH 267.
Climates of the Past
(3)
LEA
Introduction to climate and ocean history. Techniques used to reconstruct terrestrial, oceanic and atmospheric conditions. Evolution of climate over the last million years. Theories of climate change, including Milankovich hypothesis, greenhouse effect and internal feedback. Anthropogenic climate change.
EARTH 268.
Seminar in Geology-Presentation
(1)
STAFF
Prerequisite: Graduate standing.
Presentation of research topics to meeting of Geology 260.
EARTH 269.
Tracer and Contaminant Hydrology
(4)
CLARK
Enrollment Comments: Offered concurrently with Geology 169 and Environmental Studies 169.
Introduction to principles of chemical and isotope tracer hydrology. Emphasis on methods of groundwater dating, the use of tracers as management tools, and contaminate plume monitoring. Research paper required.
EARTH 270AAZZ.
Seminar in Geologic Problems
(1-4)
STAFF
Prerequisite: Graduate standing.
Review and discussion of a current problem in geology. Content is variable and depends on student interest.
EARTH 270AS.
Seminar in Geologic Problems
EARTH 270CJ.
Seminar in Geologic Problems
EARTH 270DB.
Seminar in Geologic Problems
EARTH 270DV.
Seminar in Geologic Problems
EARTH 270FM.
Seminar in Geologic Problems
EARTH 270FS.
Seminar in Geologic Problems
EARTH 270GL.
Seminar in Geologic Problems
EARTH 270JC.
Seminar in Geologic Problems
EARTH 270KM.
Seminar in Geologic Problems
EARTH 270LM.
Seminar in Geologic Problems
EARTH 270MJ.
Seminar in Geologic Problems
EARTH 270MR.
Seminar in Geologic Problems
EARTH 270PG.
Seminar in Geologic Problems
EARTH 270RM.
Seminar in Geologic Problems
EARTH 270RR.
Seminar in Geologic Problems
EARTH 270SP.
Seminar in Geologic Problems
EARTH 270SW.
Seminar in Geologic Problems
EARTH 270TT.
Seminar in Geologic Problems
EARTH 270ZE.
Seminar in Geologic Problems
EARTH 272.
Special Topics In Earth Science
(4)
STAFF
Prerequisite: Graduate Standing
Lecture-based exploration and review of special topics in Earth Science. Content is variable and depends on student interest.
EARTH 276.
Geological Oceanography
(4)
WELDEAB
Prerequisite: Graduate standing.
Morphology, formation, and evolution of ocean basins; crustal structure and composition of ocean margins; source and composition of marine sediments; marine sediment as repository of paleoclimate and paleo-ocean circulation records. Paleoceanographic changes in relation to tectonics and changes in orbital parameters, links between changes in ocean circulation and climate changes.
EARTH 277.
Ore Deposits and Mineral Resources
(4)
GANS, COTTLE
Prerequisite: Earth 2; Earth 114
Recommended Preparation: Earth 115, 124GT, 102A or 102CEnrollment Comments: Concurrently offered with 177. Course materials fee charged.
Distribution and characteristics of major classes of mineral deposits - their geologic framework, mineralogy, and structure. Lectures explore petrogenetic models for ore-formation. Laboratory exercises and field trips stress recognition of ore and accessory minerals, zoning, and exploration strategies.
EARTH 280.
Seminar in Field Geology
(1-4)
STAFF
Enrollment Comments: Credit is one half of one unit per day in the field, with a maximum of one unit for any trip. May be repeated for a maximum of eight units each academic year.
Field trips of one day or more, organized as opportune. Appropriate report required for each trip.
EARTH 281.
Field Trips in Earth Science
(2-12)
STAFF
Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.
Enrollment Comments: Concurrently offered with EARTH 181. Course materials fee charged.
Opportunity to see classic geological localities in the field. Locations vary depending on instructor(s). Lectures through the quarter cover background material needed to understand what is being observed/studied in the field. This material includes specified readings, homework assignments, exercises and exams. Lab work may also be required. Lecture, 3 hours; field, up to 6 weeks.
EARTH 282A.
Field Studies in Marine Bio/Geochemistry
(2-12)
HAYMON, VALENTINE
Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.
Enrollment Comments: Concurrently offered with EARTH 182A. Course materials fee required.
Studies in marine bio/geochemistry with the opportunity of going to sea or into the field on land. Lectures cover techniques of seafloor mapping using bottom photography, marine bio/geochemical sampling, and methods of data reduction and sample analysis. Labs include analysis of data/samples collected. Lecture, 3 hours; lab, up to 7 hours; field, up to 6 weeks.
EARTH 282B.
Field Studies in Marine Bio/Geochemistry
(2-12)
HAYMON, VALENTINE
Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.
Enrollment Comments: Concurrently offered with EARTH 282B. Course materials fee required.
Studies in marine bio/geochemistry with the opportunity of going to sea or into the field on land. Lectures cover techniques of seafloor mapping using bottom photography, marine bio/geochemical sampling, and methods of data reduction and sample analysis. Labs include analysis of data/samples collected. Lecture, 3 hours; lab, up to 7 hours; field, up to 6 weeks.
EARTH 283.
Advanced Field Mapping and Geologic Investigations
(4)
GANS
Prerequisite: Geology 118 or equivalent.
Enrollment Comments: Concurrently offered with Geology 183. Course materials fee charged.
Research-oriented mapping projects to solve outstanding problem(s) in a geologically significant area. Two weeks in the field, followed by compliation and complimentary laboratory studies. Weekly meetings to discuss results. Paper required.
EARTH 284.
Sequence Stratigraphy
(4)
SIMMS
Recommended Preparation: Earth 122 or Earth 102B
Overview of the methods and applications of sequence stratigraphy. The primary focus will be on siliciclastic systems but basic principles applied to carbonate systems will also be reviewed. Exercises will require the interpretation of cores, outcrops, and seismic reflection data.
EARTH 285.
Physical Volcanology
(4)
GANS, BUSBY
Prerequisite: Geology 14 or 114 or 114A-B; and Geology 102A and 104A.
Recommended Preparation: Geology 103.Enrollment Comments: Concurrently offered with Geology 185. Course materials fee required.
Overview of volcanic processes, including physical properties of melts, eruptive mechanisms, classification of volcanic deposits, and volcanic-tectonic environments. Lecture emphasizes theoretical aspects of volanic processes, lab examines major classification of rocks. Graduate students must complete an independent research project.
EARTH 286.
Cordilleran Tectonics
(4)
GANS
Directed readings, weekly seminar, and field trip focused on the phanerozoic tectonic evolution of the North American Cordillera. Emphasis on understanding fundamental orogenic processes (continental extension, shortening, transcurrent motions, magmatism, metamorphism) from a cordilleran perspective.
EARTH 501.
Practicum in Instruction
(1-4)
STAFF
Prerequisite: Concurrent teaching assistant appointment.
Enrollment Comments: No unit credit allowed toward degree.
Practical experience in teaching in geological sciences. Student will have responsibility for one or more laboratory and/or discussion sections. Evaluations will be made by both staff and class.
EARTH 501MT.
Practicum in Mentoring
(1-4)
STAFF
Enrollment Comments: No units credits allowed towards degree
Practical experience in mentoring undergraduates in Earth Science. Activities range from teaching laboratory and field skills, to supervising independent research, to advising students in their preparation and application for graduate school or career planning.
EARTH 502.
Teaching Assistant Training
(2)
STAFF
Enrollment Comments: Maximum of three quarters. No unit credit allowed toward degree.
Orientation and workshop in professional conduct and responsibilities. Course will involve observation of student in teaching situation (faculty visits or videotaping) and follow-up conferences, evaluations, and follow-up.
EARTH 503.
Practicum in Research
(1-6)
STAFF
Prerequisite: Concurrent research assistant appointment.
Enrollment Comments: No unit credit allowed toward degree.
Practical experience in research in the geological sciences, under supervision of faculty member.
EARTH 596.
Directed Reading and Research
(2-12)
STAFF
Prerequisite: Consent of instructor and graduate adviser.
Enrollment Comments: No more than half the units necessary for the master's degree may be taken in geology 596.
Individual tutorial. Written proposal for each tutorial must be approved by the instructor and the department chair.
EARTH 597.
Individual Study for Master's and Ph.D. Examinations
(1-12)
STAFF
Prerequisite: Consent of instructor and graduate adviser.
Enrollment Comments: No unit credit allowed toward advanced degree.
Instructor should be student's major professor or chair of the committee.
EARTH 598.
Master's Thesis Research and Preparation
(1-12)
STAFF
Prerequisite: Consent of instructor and graduate adviser.
Enrollment Comments: No unit credit allowed toward degree.
Instructor normally should be chair of the student's thesis committee. Only for research underlying the thesis, writing the thesis.
EARTH 599.
Ph.D. Dissertation Preparation
(1-12)
STAFF
Prerequisite: Consent of instructor and graduate adviser.
Instructor normally should be chair of thestudent's doctoral committee. Only for research underlying thedissertation, writing the dissertation. Limited to terminal preparation.