Introduction to radioisotope geo/thermochronology and mantle stable and radioisotope geochemistry. Course covers: (1) methods for dating of rocks and geologic processes using long-half-life radioisotope systems, including the various isotope systems available and their applicability; (2) radioisotope techniques for investigation of the geochemical evolution of the crust and mantle; (3) isotope fractionation and utility of traditional and novel stable isotope geochemistry for interrogating high-temperature processes, and (4) thermochronology and methods for interrogating upper-crustal processes. Recommended course background: AS.270.220 and AS.270.221, or instructor permission.
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Rocks as Clocks AS.270.319 (01)
Introduction to radioisotope geo/thermochronology and mantle stable and radioisotope geochemistry. Course covers: (1) methods for dating of rocks and geologic processes using long-half-life radioisotope systems, including the various isotope systems available and their applicability; (2) radioisotope techniques for investigation of the geochemical evolution of the crust and mantle; (3) isotope fractionation and utility of traditional and novel stable isotope geochemistry for interrogating high-temperature processes, and (4) thermochronology and methods for interrogating upper-crustal processes. Recommended course background: AS.270.220 and AS.270.221, or instructor permission.
Days/Times: TTh 10:30AM - 11:45AM
Instructor: Viete, Daniel R
Room: Olin 204
Status: Open
Seats Available: 11/16
PosTag(s): n/a
AS.270.332 (01)
Soil Ecology
F 1:30PM - 4:00PM
Szlavecz, Katalin
Olin 247
Fall 2023
The course introduces basic aspects of cycles and flows in the soil ecosystem, and provides students with an overview of the higher groups of soil organisms. Laboratory and field surveying methods are also covered.
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Soil Ecology AS.270.332 (01)
The course introduces basic aspects of cycles and flows in the soil ecosystem, and provides students with an overview of the higher groups of soil organisms. Laboratory and field surveying methods are also covered.
Days/Times: F 1:30PM - 4:00PM
Instructor: Szlavecz, Katalin
Room: Olin 247
Status: Waitlist Only
Seats Available: 0/10
PosTag(s): ENVS-MAJOR, ENVS-MINOR
AS.270.221 (01)
The Dynamic Earth Laboratory
W 1:30PM - 4:00PM
Lewis, Kevin; Viete, Daniel R
Olin 203
Fall 2023
This course is a hands-on learning experience for introductory geological concepts and techniques using geological tools, such as mineral/rock samples, microscopes, and maps. Field trips are its essential part. The course is open to undergraduates at all levels; freshmen who wish to get their hands (and boots) dirty are encouraged to enroll.
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The Dynamic Earth Laboratory AS.270.221 (01)
This course is a hands-on learning experience for introductory geological concepts and techniques using geological tools, such as mineral/rock samples, microscopes, and maps. Field trips are its essential part. The course is open to undergraduates at all levels; freshmen who wish to get their hands (and boots) dirty are encouraged to enroll.
Days/Times: W 1:30PM - 4:00PM
Instructor: Lewis, Kevin; Viete, Daniel R
Room: Olin 203
Status: Waitlist Only
Seats Available: 0/15
PosTag(s): ENVS-MAJOR, ENVS-MINOR
AS.270.307 (01)
Geoscience Modeling
TTh 9:00AM - 10:15AM
Haine, Thomas
Olin 145
Fall 2023
An introduction to modern ways to interpret observations in the context of a conceptual model. Topics include model building, hypothesis testing, and inverse methods. Practical examples from geophysics, engineering, and medical physics will be featured.
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Geoscience Modeling AS.270.307 (01)
An introduction to modern ways to interpret observations in the context of a conceptual model. Topics include model building, hypothesis testing, and inverse methods. Practical examples from geophysics, engineering, and medical physics will be featured.
Days/Times: TTh 9:00AM - 10:15AM
Instructor: Haine, Thomas
Room: Olin 145
Status: Open
Seats Available: 10/15
PosTag(s): ENVS-MAJOR, ENVS-MINOR
AS.270.220 (01)
The Dynamic Earth: An Introduction to Geology
TTh 1:30PM - 2:45PM
Lewis, Kevin; Viete, Daniel R
Olin 305
Fall 2023
Basic concepts in geology, including plate tectonics; Earth’s internal structure; geologic time; minerals; formation of igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic rocks; development of faults, folds and earthquakes; geomagnetism. Corequisite (for EPS Majors): AS.270.221; optional for others. The course is introductory and open to undergraduates at all levels; freshmen are encouraged to enroll.
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The Dynamic Earth: An Introduction to Geology AS.270.220 (01)
Basic concepts in geology, including plate tectonics; Earth’s internal structure; geologic time; minerals; formation of igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic rocks; development of faults, folds and earthquakes; geomagnetism. Corequisite (for EPS Majors): AS.270.221; optional for others. The course is introductory and open to undergraduates at all levels; freshmen are encouraged to enroll.
Days/Times: TTh 1:30PM - 2:45PM
Instructor: Lewis, Kevin; Viete, Daniel R
Room: Olin 305
Status: Open
Seats Available: 13/50
PosTag(s): ENVS-MINOR, ENVS-MAJOR, ARCH-RELATE
AS.270.211 (01)
From Hollow Earth to Plate Tectonics
MW 12:00PM - 1:15PM
Lonsdale, Mary C
Olin 204
Fall 2023
How do mountains form? What do fossils record? Today, answers to these questions might talk of plate tectonics or evolutionary history. However, centuries ago they were met with hypotheses of a shriveling, fluid filled grape-like Earth and the loss of species due to overfishing. Although these rejected hypotheses sound bizarre to the modern ear, they form the backbone of our understanding of the Earth and evidence the importance of the scientific method.
The aim of this course is to investigate geologic concepts through the lens of their development through history. Subjects to be covered include the advent of modern geology, the evolution of the ways geologists tell time, and the development of theories related to mountain building and plate movement. Students will also explore modern questions in Earth Science and investigate how hypotheses are tested today. In this seminar-style course, classes will revolve around discussions of secondary and primary sources. By exploring the history of geology, students will gain a deeper understanding of Earth system processes and the application of the scientific method.
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From Hollow Earth to Plate Tectonics AS.270.211 (01)
How do mountains form? What do fossils record? Today, answers to these questions might talk of plate tectonics or evolutionary history. However, centuries ago they were met with hypotheses of a shriveling, fluid filled grape-like Earth and the loss of species due to overfishing. Although these rejected hypotheses sound bizarre to the modern ear, they form the backbone of our understanding of the Earth and evidence the importance of the scientific method.
The aim of this course is to investigate geologic concepts through the lens of their development through history. Subjects to be covered include the advent of modern geology, the evolution of the ways geologists tell time, and the development of theories related to mountain building and plate movement. Students will also explore modern questions in Earth Science and investigate how hypotheses are tested today. In this seminar-style course, classes will revolve around discussions of secondary and primary sources. By exploring the history of geology, students will gain a deeper understanding of Earth system processes and the application of the scientific method.
Days/Times: MW 12:00PM - 1:15PM
Instructor: Lonsdale, Mary C
Room: Olin 204
Status: Open
Seats Available: 14/18
PosTag(s): n/a
AS.130.250 (01)
Clapping Rivers, Talking Snakes: Nature in the Hebrew Bible and Ancient Middle East
TTh 3:00PM - 4:15PM
Cooper, Stephanie Lynn
Gilman 381
Fall 2023
How did ancient people relate to their environment—the animals, plants, landscapes, and weather with which they interacted? How have modern binary conceptions of ‘nature’ and ‘culture’ or ‘human’ and ‘animal’ influenced our interpretation of ancient texts (along with ancient societies)? What is “the zoological gaze?” This course will focus on these questions and more as it investigates conceptions of nature in the texts of the Hebrew Bible, as well as texts and material culture from ancient Egypt, Mesopotamia (modern-day Iraq), and the Levant (modern-day Syria, Lebanon, Palestine, Israel, and Jordan). We will interrogate various interpretive lenses, including Posthumanism, Animal Studies, and Metaphor Theory, as we explore themes such as creation, nature and divinity, and animals in rituals, legal texts, and prophecies, among others. No previous familiarity with Hebrew language or the Hebrew Bible is needed.
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Clapping Rivers, Talking Snakes: Nature in the Hebrew Bible and Ancient Middle East AS.130.250 (01)
How did ancient people relate to their environment—the animals, plants, landscapes, and weather with which they interacted? How have modern binary conceptions of ‘nature’ and ‘culture’ or ‘human’ and ‘animal’ influenced our interpretation of ancient texts (along with ancient societies)? What is “the zoological gaze?” This course will focus on these questions and more as it investigates conceptions of nature in the texts of the Hebrew Bible, as well as texts and material culture from ancient Egypt, Mesopotamia (modern-day Iraq), and the Levant (modern-day Syria, Lebanon, Palestine, Israel, and Jordan). We will interrogate various interpretive lenses, including Posthumanism, Animal Studies, and Metaphor Theory, as we explore themes such as creation, nature and divinity, and animals in rituals, legal texts, and prophecies, among others. No previous familiarity with Hebrew language or the Hebrew Bible is needed.
Days/Times: TTh 3:00PM - 4:15PM
Instructor: Cooper, Stephanie Lynn
Room: Gilman 381
Status: Open
Seats Available: 7/15
PosTag(s): NEAS-HISCUL, ENVS-MAJOR, ARCH-RELATE
AS.270.103 (01)
Introduction to Global Environmental Change
TTh 10:30AM - 11:45AM
Gnanadesikan, Anand; Zaitchik, Benjamin Frederick
Olin 305
Fall 2023
An introduction to the science behind global environmental issues. Earth systems, biogeochemical cycles, and the interrelationships between the living and nonliving world are explored, along with applications to climate change, biodiversity loss, and other issues of global significance.
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Introduction to Global Environmental Change AS.270.103 (01)
An introduction to the science behind global environmental issues. Earth systems, biogeochemical cycles, and the interrelationships between the living and nonliving world are explored, along with applications to climate change, biodiversity loss, and other issues of global significance.
Days/Times: TTh 10:30AM - 11:45AM
Instructor: Gnanadesikan, Anand; Zaitchik, Benjamin Frederick
Room: Olin 305
Status: Open
Seats Available: 51/110
PosTag(s): ARCH-RELATE, ENVS-MAJOR, ENVS-MINOR
AS.270.205 (01)
Introduction to Geographic Information Systems and Geospatial Analysis
M 1:30PM - 4:00PM
Chen, Xin
Krieger 108
Fall 2023
The course provides a broad introduction to the principles and practice of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and related tools of Geospatial Analysis. Topics will include history of GIS, GIS data structures, data acquisition and merging, database management, spatial analysis, and GIS applications. In addition, students will get hands-on experience working with GIS software.
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Introduction to Geographic Information Systems and Geospatial Analysis AS.270.205 (01)
The course provides a broad introduction to the principles and practice of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and related tools of Geospatial Analysis. Topics will include history of GIS, GIS data structures, data acquisition and merging, database management, spatial analysis, and GIS applications. In addition, students will get hands-on experience working with GIS software.
Days/Times: M 1:30PM - 4:00PM
Instructor: Chen, Xin
Room: Krieger 108
Status: Open
Seats Available: 4/24
PosTag(s): ENVS-MINOR, ARCH-RELATE, ENVS-MAJOR
AS.001.167 (01)
FYS: The Natural History of the Homewood Campus
MW 3:00PM - 4:15PM
Szlavecz, Katalin
Gilman 413
Fall 2023
Johns Hopkins University Homewood campus and its surroundings is a wonderful green space in the middle of Baltimore City. This First-Year Seminar will introduce students to both the visible and cryptic organisms living above- and belowground. A combination of observational and sampling techniques will be used to demonstrate how ecologists collect data about plants, insects, and other organisms. In the classroom, these field observations, combined with reading material will be used to discuss global environmental issues including climate change on biodiversity, invasive species, and human impacts on the landscape. By the end of the course students will be able to generate research questions based upon field observations and appreciate the diverse life forms both in Earth and in our backyard. Students should be prepared to spend many hours outside.
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FYS: The Natural History of the Homewood Campus AS.001.167 (01)
Johns Hopkins University Homewood campus and its surroundings is a wonderful green space in the middle of Baltimore City. This First-Year Seminar will introduce students to both the visible and cryptic organisms living above- and belowground. A combination of observational and sampling techniques will be used to demonstrate how ecologists collect data about plants, insects, and other organisms. In the classroom, these field observations, combined with reading material will be used to discuss global environmental issues including climate change on biodiversity, invasive species, and human impacts on the landscape. By the end of the course students will be able to generate research questions based upon field observations and appreciate the diverse life forms both in Earth and in our backyard. Students should be prepared to spend many hours outside.
Days/Times: MW 3:00PM - 4:15PM
Instructor: Szlavecz, Katalin
Room: Gilman 413
Status: Waitlist Only
Seats Available: 0/12
PosTag(s): n/a
AS.271.315 (01)
Environmental Films and Literature
M 4:30PM - 5:45PM
Kopelent-Rehak, Jana Hana
Olin 304
Fall 2023
This “book club” style seminar focuses on the exploration, discussion and critical analysis of a range of contemporary environmental films and literature.
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Environmental Films and Literature AS.271.315 (01)
This “book club” style seminar focuses on the exploration, discussion and critical analysis of a range of contemporary environmental films and literature.
Days/Times: M 4:30PM - 5:45PM
Instructor: Kopelent-Rehak, Jana Hana
Room: Olin 304
Status: Open
Seats Available: 7/12
PosTag(s): ENVS-MAJOR, ENVS-MINOR
AS.270.356 (01)
A Modern History of Climate Science
TTh 3:00PM - 4:15PM
Siddiqui, Ali Hasan
Olin 145
Fall 2023
This course charts the evolution of the field of climate science over the last 250 years. We will explore the history of scientific development that led to advances in climate research in the 19th and 20th century. We will also explore the political and social context in which climate science evolved in the West and the backlash of climate change denial that developed due to the influence of the fossil fuel industry. While this course is focused on history, students will be exposed to introductory scientific and technical concepts needed to understand basic climate science.
Our understanding of the earth's climate has come a long way in the last two centuries. We understand the implications of climate change on humanity and have already begun to feel the effects of the changing climate on our society. Yet, it has taken us too long to prioritize climate action and policy. Why does knowledge not always translate into governance and policy? While we understand how the climate impacts our society, do we understand how our society impacts climate research? We will look for answers to these and more questions in this course from a historical framework.
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A Modern History of Climate Science AS.270.356 (01)
This course charts the evolution of the field of climate science over the last 250 years. We will explore the history of scientific development that led to advances in climate research in the 19th and 20th century. We will also explore the political and social context in which climate science evolved in the West and the backlash of climate change denial that developed due to the influence of the fossil fuel industry. While this course is focused on history, students will be exposed to introductory scientific and technical concepts needed to understand basic climate science.
Our understanding of the earth's climate has come a long way in the last two centuries. We understand the implications of climate change on humanity and have already begun to feel the effects of the changing climate on our society. Yet, it has taken us too long to prioritize climate action and policy. Why does knowledge not always translate into governance and policy? While we understand how the climate impacts our society, do we understand how our society impacts climate research? We will look for answers to these and more questions in this course from a historical framework.
Environmental Anthropology: Ecological Knowledge, Cultural Practices and Cosmological Systems
MW 3:00PM - 4:15PM
Kopelent-Rehak, Jana Hana
Olin 346
Fall 2023
Ecological and environmental anthropology course focuses on the anthropological assessment of environmental issues, the management of natural resources and the study of biological, cultural, and behavioral factors as they impinge upon our understanding of the environment and our ability to respond to environmentally based opportunities, problems, and crises. Course activities and assignments will investigate how human knowledge is integrated into ecological systems.
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Environmental Anthropology: Ecological Knowledge, Cultural Practices and Cosmological Systems AS.271.307 (01)
Ecological and environmental anthropology course focuses on the anthropological assessment of environmental issues, the management of natural resources and the study of biological, cultural, and behavioral factors as they impinge upon our understanding of the environment and our ability to respond to environmentally based opportunities, problems, and crises. Course activities and assignments will investigate how human knowledge is integrated into ecological systems.
Days/Times: MW 3:00PM - 4:15PM
Instructor: Kopelent-Rehak, Jana Hana
Room: Olin 346
Status: Open
Seats Available: 19/24
PosTag(s): ENVS-MAJOR, ENVS-MINOR, ARCH-RELATE
AS.271.496 (01)
Senior Capstone
T 1:30PM - 4:00PM
Kopelent-Rehak, Jana Hana
Olin 304
Fall 2023
This seminar will provide the academic space, time, and mentoring for students to integrate, synthesize and apply the knowledge and skills obtained through the ENVS curriculum. The course focuses on the development of critical thinking and oral communication skills through intellectual engagement with complex and challenging environmental problems.
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Senior Capstone AS.271.496 (01)
This seminar will provide the academic space, time, and mentoring for students to integrate, synthesize and apply the knowledge and skills obtained through the ENVS curriculum. The course focuses on the development of critical thinking and oral communication skills through intellectual engagement with complex and challenging environmental problems.
Days/Times: T 1:30PM - 4:00PM
Instructor: Kopelent-Rehak, Jana Hana
Room: Olin 304
Status: Open
Seats Available: 7/19
PosTag(s): ENVS-MAJOR
AS.271.499 (01)
Senior Seminar
W 12:00PM - 12:50PM
Burgess, Jerry; Schantz, Ashley
Olin 304
Fall 2023
This seminar explores topics related to career development and current events to support senior environmental majors as they transition to post-graduate life and work.
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Senior Seminar AS.271.499 (01)
This seminar explores topics related to career development and current events to support senior environmental majors as they transition to post-graduate life and work.
Days/Times: W 12:00PM - 12:50PM
Instructor: Burgess, Jerry; Schantz, Ashley
Room: Olin 304
Status: Open
Seats Available: 7/19
PosTag(s): ENVS-MAJOR
AS.271.402 (01)
Water, Energy, and Food Nexus
Th 3:00PM - 5:30PM
Burgess, Jerry
Olin 247
Fall 2023
The water, energy and food (WEF) nexus is a topic of growing interest in the research and policy communities. This course will survey WEF concepts and principles, introduce tools of analysis, and engage students in case studies of critical WEF issues in the United States and internationally.
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Water, Energy, and Food Nexus AS.271.402 (01)
The water, energy and food (WEF) nexus is a topic of growing interest in the research and policy communities. This course will survey WEF concepts and principles, introduce tools of analysis, and engage students in case studies of critical WEF issues in the United States and internationally.
How to Live Forever: The Making of the Geologic Record of Life
MW 1:30PM - 2:45PM
Sanders, Cecilia Brooke
Olin 247
Fall 2023
Everything we know about the origins and evolution of life comes from the geologic record: bones and shells, stromatolites, ancient DNA, and subtle variations in the chemical and isotopic composition of rocks. But what processes — biological and abiological — determine which living things really do “live forever” as fossil biosignatures, and which are lost to the sands of time? In this course, students will learn how researchers read and interpret the geologic record of life and quantify its limitations, to better understand how life came to be and how it has changed through time. They will learn how organisms’ lifestyles and metabolisms affect the chemical and physical properties of their environment and how the process of fossilization is facilitated by physiology, ecological relationships, and diagenesis. Students will engage with a wide range of content, from interdisciplinary academic research articles to speculative science fiction, and work with geologic samples and chemical and isotopic datasets.
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How to Live Forever: The Making of the Geologic Record of Life AS.270.363 (01)
Everything we know about the origins and evolution of life comes from the geologic record: bones and shells, stromatolites, ancient DNA, and subtle variations in the chemical and isotopic composition of rocks. But what processes — biological and abiological — determine which living things really do “live forever” as fossil biosignatures, and which are lost to the sands of time? In this course, students will learn how researchers read and interpret the geologic record of life and quantify its limitations, to better understand how life came to be and how it has changed through time. They will learn how organisms’ lifestyles and metabolisms affect the chemical and physical properties of their environment and how the process of fossilization is facilitated by physiology, ecological relationships, and diagenesis. Students will engage with a wide range of content, from interdisciplinary academic research articles to speculative science fiction, and work with geologic samples and chemical and isotopic datasets.
Days/Times: MW 1:30PM - 2:45PM
Instructor: Sanders, Cecilia Brooke
Room: Olin 247
Status: Open
Seats Available: 8/15
PosTag(s): ENVS-MAJOR, ENVS-MINOR
AS.270.425 (01)
Earth and Planetary Fluids
TTh 1:30PM - 2:45PM
Barik, Ankit; Gnanadesikan, Anand
Olin 145
Fall 2023
An introductory course on the properties, flow, and transport characteristics of fluids throughout the Earth and planets. Topics covered include: constitutive relationships, fluid rheology, hydrostatics, dimensional analysis, low Reynolds number flow, porous media, waves, stratified and rotating fluids, plus heat, mass, and tracer transport. Illustrative examples and problems are drawn from the atmosphere, ocean, crust, mantle, and core of the Earth and other Planets. Open to graduate and advanced undergraduate students. Recommended Course Background: Basic Physics, Calculus, and familiarity with ordinary differential equations.
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Earth and Planetary Fluids AS.270.425 (01)
An introductory course on the properties, flow, and transport characteristics of fluids throughout the Earth and planets. Topics covered include: constitutive relationships, fluid rheology, hydrostatics, dimensional analysis, low Reynolds number flow, porous media, waves, stratified and rotating fluids, plus heat, mass, and tracer transport. Illustrative examples and problems are drawn from the atmosphere, ocean, crust, mantle, and core of the Earth and other Planets. Open to graduate and advanced undergraduate students. Recommended Course Background: Basic Physics, Calculus, and familiarity with ordinary differential equations.
Days/Times: TTh 1:30PM - 2:45PM
Instructor: Barik, Ankit; Gnanadesikan, Anand
Room: Olin 145
Status: Open
Seats Available: 7/15
PosTag(s): n/a
AS.270.378 (01)
Present and Future Climate
MW 1:30PM - 2:45PM
Osman, Mahmoud; Zaitchik, Benjamin Frederick
Olin 304
Fall 2023
Intended for majors who are interested in the science that underlies the current debate on global warming, the focus is on recent observations one can glean from model simulations. Meets with AS.270.641. Recommended Course Background: AS.110.108-AS.110.109 and AS.171.101-AS.171.102
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Present and Future Climate AS.270.378 (01)
Intended for majors who are interested in the science that underlies the current debate on global warming, the focus is on recent observations one can glean from model simulations. Meets with AS.270.641. Recommended Course Background: AS.110.108-AS.110.109 and AS.171.101-AS.171.102
Days/Times: MW 1:30PM - 2:45PM
Instructor: Osman, Mahmoud; Zaitchik, Benjamin Frederick
Room: Olin 304
Status: Open
Seats Available: 6/12
PosTag(s): ENVS-MAJOR, ENVS-MINOR
AS.360.339 (01)
Planets, Life and the Universe
MWF 11:00AM - 11:50AM
DiRuggiero, Jocelyne
Hodson 316
Fall 2023
This multidisciplinary course explores the origins of life, planet formation, Earth's evolution, extrasolar planets, habitable zones, life in extreme environments, the search for life in the Universe, space missions, and planetary protection. Recommended Course Background: Three upper level (300+) courses in sciences (Biophysics, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Astronomy, Math, or Computer Science).
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Planets, Life and the Universe AS.360.339 (01)
This multidisciplinary course explores the origins of life, planet formation, Earth's evolution, extrasolar planets, habitable zones, life in extreme environments, the search for life in the Universe, space missions, and planetary protection. Recommended Course Background: Three upper level (300+) courses in sciences (Biophysics, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Astronomy, Math, or Computer Science).
Days/Times: MWF 11:00AM - 11:50AM
Instructor: DiRuggiero, Jocelyne
Room: Hodson 316
Status: Waitlist Only
Seats Available: 0/30
PosTag(s): BIOL-UL, CHBE-ACBE
AS.211.365 (01)
Environmental Justice
MW 10:30AM - 11:45AM
Heffes, Gisela; Loiselle, Ken
Mergenthaler 426
Spring 2024
This class will explore the intersections of environmental and social justice issues through an analysis of literary fiction, documentaries and films, art, media, and archival materials. We will study how environmental issues are deeply connected with issues of race, class, gender, ethnicity, and the legacies of colonialism. We will pay close attention to the tensions encountered by notions such as environmentalism of the poor and the disparities that arise from a comparative and historical perspective Global South vis-à-vis Global North, and within the North, among the most vulnerable communities. We will consider the generative potential of storytelling and the arts for imagining an alternative socioeconomic and culture paradigm predicated on environmental sustainability and economic and social equity. This class is profoundly interdisciplinary, bringing together knowledge from all parts of students’ life. By the end of this course, students will see many connections between literary and cultural studies, environmental ethics, social justice, and civic engagement.
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Environmental Justice AS.211.365 (01)
This class will explore the intersections of environmental and social justice issues through an analysis of literary fiction, documentaries and films, art, media, and archival materials. We will study how environmental issues are deeply connected with issues of race, class, gender, ethnicity, and the legacies of colonialism. We will pay close attention to the tensions encountered by notions such as environmentalism of the poor and the disparities that arise from a comparative and historical perspective Global South vis-à-vis Global North, and within the North, among the most vulnerable communities. We will consider the generative potential of storytelling and the arts for imagining an alternative socioeconomic and culture paradigm predicated on environmental sustainability and economic and social equity. This class is profoundly interdisciplinary, bringing together knowledge from all parts of students’ life. By the end of this course, students will see many connections between literary and cultural studies, environmental ethics, social justice, and civic engagement.
Days/Times: MW 10:30AM - 11:45AM
Instructor: Heffes, Gisela; Loiselle, Ken
Room: Mergenthaler 426
Status: Open
Seats Available: 1/17
PosTag(s): ENVS-MAJOR, ENVS-MINOR, MSCH-HUM
AS.212.426 (01)
Penser l'Animal de l'Ancien Régime à la Belle Epoque
MW 12:00PM - 1:15PM
Loiselle, Ken
Gilman 77
Spring 2024
This seminar explores the history of thinking about non-human and human animals in France from the late sixteenth through the late nineteenth centuries. Topics to be explored include non-human sentience, interspecies relations, animals and industrialization, and the emergence of anti-cruelty laws. Taught in French.
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Penser l'Animal de l'Ancien Régime à la Belle Epoque AS.212.426 (01)
This seminar explores the history of thinking about non-human and human animals in France from the late sixteenth through the late nineteenth centuries. Topics to be explored include non-human sentience, interspecies relations, animals and industrialization, and the emergence of anti-cruelty laws. Taught in French.
Days/Times: MW 12:00PM - 1:15PM
Instructor: Loiselle, Ken
Room: Gilman 77
Status: Open
Seats Available: 8/14
PosTag(s): MSCH-HUM
AS.211.424 (01)
Climate Change Narratives: Human and Non-Human Transformative Storytelling
T 3:00PM - 5:30PM
Di Bianco, Laura
Gilman 75
Spring 2024
In The Great Derangement Indian novelist Amitav Ghosh writes that “the climate crisis is also a crisis of culture, and thus of imagination.” Worldwide, climate and environmental change is stirring the imaginary of novelists, filmmakers, and artists who are finding ways to frame, emplot, or even perform, an unmanageable phenomenon like climate change. How is climate change shaping new modes of storytelling and aesthetics? How do film, literature, and environmentally conscious art transform our perception of the world we inhabit and its unpredictable changes? Can climate change narratives help us to imagine futures of possibilities, maybe dystopian, uncertain, or even happy, but futures nonetheless? This multimedia course explores, through a transnational perspective, a variety of contemporary novels, films, and other media that attempt answer these questions.
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Climate Change Narratives: Human and Non-Human Transformative Storytelling AS.211.424 (01)
In The Great Derangement Indian novelist Amitav Ghosh writes that “the climate crisis is also a crisis of culture, and thus of imagination.” Worldwide, climate and environmental change is stirring the imaginary of novelists, filmmakers, and artists who are finding ways to frame, emplot, or even perform, an unmanageable phenomenon like climate change. How is climate change shaping new modes of storytelling and aesthetics? How do film, literature, and environmentally conscious art transform our perception of the world we inhabit and its unpredictable changes? Can climate change narratives help us to imagine futures of possibilities, maybe dystopian, uncertain, or even happy, but futures nonetheless? This multimedia course explores, through a transnational perspective, a variety of contemporary novels, films, and other media that attempt answer these questions.
This course explores processes that influence the evolution of planetary surfaces, including impact cratering, tectonics, volcanism, weathering, and sediment transport. These processes manifest themselves as structural deformation of planetary crusts due to loading by volcanoes, formation of craters by asteroid impacts, modification of surfaces by flowing landslides, rivers and glaciers, and the accumulation and transport of sand in dune fields on various planets. Emphasis is on the relationship to similar Earth processes, and the integrated geologic histories of the terrestrial planets, satellites, and asteroids. The focus will be on developing a physical understanding of these processes to interpret the surface characteristics and evolution of planets, satellites, asteroids, and comets from both qualitative assessments and quantitative measurements obtained from spacecraft data. A key component of the class will be the interpretation of these observations from recent and current planetary missions to the Moon, Mars, and other terrestrial bodies.
Recommended Course Background: A sound knowledge of Calculus and Introductory Physics, and some prior knowledge of Earth and/or Planetary Science.
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Planetary Surface Processes AS.270.410 (01)
This course explores processes that influence the evolution of planetary surfaces, including impact cratering, tectonics, volcanism, weathering, and sediment transport. These processes manifest themselves as structural deformation of planetary crusts due to loading by volcanoes, formation of craters by asteroid impacts, modification of surfaces by flowing landslides, rivers and glaciers, and the accumulation and transport of sand in dune fields on various planets. Emphasis is on the relationship to similar Earth processes, and the integrated geologic histories of the terrestrial planets, satellites, and asteroids. The focus will be on developing a physical understanding of these processes to interpret the surface characteristics and evolution of planets, satellites, asteroids, and comets from both qualitative assessments and quantitative measurements obtained from spacecraft data. A key component of the class will be the interpretation of these observations from recent and current planetary missions to the Moon, Mars, and other terrestrial bodies.
Recommended Course Background: A sound knowledge of Calculus and Introductory Physics, and some prior knowledge of Earth and/or Planetary Science.
Days/Times: TTh 3:00PM - 4:15PM
Instructor: Lewis, Kevin
Room: Olin 204
Status: Open
Seats Available: 8/15
PosTag(s): n/a
AS.270.222 (01)
Mineralogy
WF 9:00AM - 9:50AM, W 3:00PM - 6:00PM
Wicks, June K
Olin 203
Spring 2024
Introduction to the classification, crystallography, and physical properties of minerals. Weekly lab topics include field identification, crystal morphology and symmetry, optical microscopy and Raman spectroscopy. One field trip to the Smithsonian National Museum of History and Research Archives is planned.
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Mineralogy AS.270.222 (01)
Introduction to the classification, crystallography, and physical properties of minerals. Weekly lab topics include field identification, crystal morphology and symmetry, optical microscopy and Raman spectroscopy. One field trip to the Smithsonian National Museum of History and Research Archives is planned.
Days/Times: WF 9:00AM - 9:50AM, W 3:00PM - 6:00PM
Instructor: Wicks, June K
Room: Olin 203
Status: Open
Seats Available: 16/20
PosTag(s): ARCH-RELATE
AS.270.114 (01)
Guided Tour: The Planets
TTh 3:00PM - 4:15PM
Lewis, Kevin
Olin 305
Spring 2024
An introduction to planetary science and planetary exploration primarily for non-science majors. A survey of concepts from astronomy, chemistry, geology, and physics applied to the study of the solar system.
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Guided Tour: The Planets AS.270.114 (01)
An introduction to planetary science and planetary exploration primarily for non-science majors. A survey of concepts from astronomy, chemistry, geology, and physics applied to the study of the solar system.
Days/Times: TTh 3:00PM - 4:15PM
Instructor: Lewis, Kevin
Room: Olin 305
Status: Open
Seats Available: 46/110
PosTag(s): n/a
AS.270.202 (01)
Introduction to Ecology
TTh 10:30AM - 11:45AM
Szlavecz, Katalin
Olin 305
Spring 2024
Ecology is the study of organisms and their environment. This course focuses on the patterns of distribution and abundance of organisms. Topics include population dynamics and regulation, competition, predation, host-parasite interactions, patterns of species diversity, community succession, the flow of energy and matter through ecosystems. We will also discuss the role of natural and human disturbances in shaping communities.
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Introduction to Ecology AS.270.202 (01)
Ecology is the study of organisms and their environment. This course focuses on the patterns of distribution and abundance of organisms. Topics include population dynamics and regulation, competition, predation, host-parasite interactions, patterns of species diversity, community succession, the flow of energy and matter through ecosystems. We will also discuss the role of natural and human disturbances in shaping communities.
Days/Times: TTh 10:30AM - 11:45AM
Instructor: Szlavecz, Katalin
Room: Olin 305
Status: Open
Seats Available: 26/45
PosTag(s): ENVS-MINOR, ARCH-RELATE, BEHB-BIOBEH
AS.270.306 (01)
Urban Ecology
MW 12:00PM - 1:15PM
Avolio, Meghan Lynn
Olin 204
Spring 2024
Urban ecology has been called the ecology in, of, and for cities. In this course, we will explore how ecological concepts are applied to urban ecosystems and the different approaches to urban ecological research. Topics will include: Biodiversity, water dynamics, energy and heat island effects, and nutrient cycling, urban metabolism, design of greenspace, and sustainability of cities. We will use Baltimore as a case study for studying cities.
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Urban Ecology AS.270.306 (01)
Urban ecology has been called the ecology in, of, and for cities. In this course, we will explore how ecological concepts are applied to urban ecosystems and the different approaches to urban ecological research. Topics will include: Biodiversity, water dynamics, energy and heat island effects, and nutrient cycling, urban metabolism, design of greenspace, and sustainability of cities. We will use Baltimore as a case study for studying cities.
Days/Times: MW 12:00PM - 1:15PM
Instructor: Avolio, Meghan Lynn
Room: Olin 204
Status: Open
Seats Available: 3/22
PosTag(s): ENVS-MAJOR, ENVS-MINOR
AS.270.224 (01)
Oceans & Atmospheres
MWF 1:30PM - 2:20PM
Haine, Thomas; Waugh, Darryn
Olin 304
Spring 2024
A broad survey of the Earth’s oceans and atmospheres, and their role in the environment and climate. Topics covered include waves, tides, ocean and atmosphere circulation, weather systems, tornadoes and hurricanes, El Niño, and climate change. For science and engineering majors
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Oceans & Atmospheres AS.270.224 (01)
A broad survey of the Earth’s oceans and atmospheres, and their role in the environment and climate. Topics covered include waves, tides, ocean and atmosphere circulation, weather systems, tornadoes and hurricanes, El Niño, and climate change. For science and engineering majors
Days/Times: MWF 1:30PM - 2:20PM
Instructor: Haine, Thomas; Waugh, Darryn
Room: Olin 304
Status: Open
Seats Available: 9/32
PosTag(s): ENVS-MAJOR, ENVS-MINOR
AS.270.311 (01)
Geobiology
TTh 1:30PM - 2:45PM
Gomes, Maya L
Olin 204
Spring 2024
Geobiology is the study of the interaction between rocks and life. Geobiologists investigate questions ranging from how organisms obtain energy from rocks to how evidence of life is preserved in rocks and informs us about the evolution of life on our planet and beyond. It is a rapidly expanding field because of its relevance to astrobiology, microbiology, paleontology, and reconstructing environmental change during ancient periods climate change with implications for evaluating our future under elevated atmospheric carbon dioxide levels. In this course, students will learn about how organisms drive major elemental cycles that impact climate and habitability, how major evolutionary radiations have affected the trajectory of Earth surface environments, and the tools that are used to ask fundamental questions about why life has thrived on this planet and how we might detect if other planets support life.
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Geobiology AS.270.311 (01)
Geobiology is the study of the interaction between rocks and life. Geobiologists investigate questions ranging from how organisms obtain energy from rocks to how evidence of life is preserved in rocks and informs us about the evolution of life on our planet and beyond. It is a rapidly expanding field because of its relevance to astrobiology, microbiology, paleontology, and reconstructing environmental change during ancient periods climate change with implications for evaluating our future under elevated atmospheric carbon dioxide levels. In this course, students will learn about how organisms drive major elemental cycles that impact climate and habitability, how major evolutionary radiations have affected the trajectory of Earth surface environments, and the tools that are used to ask fundamental questions about why life has thrived on this planet and how we might detect if other planets support life.
Days/Times: TTh 1:30PM - 2:45PM
Instructor: Gomes, Maya L
Room: Olin 204
Status: Open
Seats Available: 11/20
PosTag(s): ENVS-MAJOR, ENVS-MINOR
AS.270.205 (01)
Introduction to Geographic Information Systems and Geospatial Analysis
M 1:30PM - 4:00PM
Chen, Xin
Krieger 108
Spring 2024
The course provides a broad introduction to the principles and practice of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and related tools of Geospatial Analysis. Topics will include history of GIS, GIS data structures, data acquisition and merging, database management, spatial analysis, and GIS applications. In addition, students will get hands-on experience working with GIS software.
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Introduction to Geographic Information Systems and Geospatial Analysis AS.270.205 (01)
The course provides a broad introduction to the principles and practice of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and related tools of Geospatial Analysis. Topics will include history of GIS, GIS data structures, data acquisition and merging, database management, spatial analysis, and GIS applications. In addition, students will get hands-on experience working with GIS software.
Days/Times: M 1:30PM - 4:00PM
Instructor: Chen, Xin
Room: Krieger 108
Status: Open
Seats Available: 15/24
PosTag(s): ARCH-RELATE, ENVS-MINOR
AS.270.310 (01)
Evolution and Development of the Vertebrates
TTh 3:00PM - 4:15PM
Bever, Gabriel S.
Olin 204
Spring 2024
Modern vertebrates (animals with backbones) are the products of a more than 500-million-year evolutionary history. This course surveys that history and uses it to explore such core evolutionary concepts as adaptive radiation, convergence, extinction, homology, phylogenetic taxonomy, and tree thinking. Emphasis will be placed on the origins of the modern vertebrate fauna and how fossils are being integrated with developmental biology to better understand major transitions in the vertebrate body plan.
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Evolution and Development of the Vertebrates AS.270.310 (01)
Modern vertebrates (animals with backbones) are the products of a more than 500-million-year evolutionary history. This course surveys that history and uses it to explore such core evolutionary concepts as adaptive radiation, convergence, extinction, homology, phylogenetic taxonomy, and tree thinking. Emphasis will be placed on the origins of the modern vertebrate fauna and how fossils are being integrated with developmental biology to better understand major transitions in the vertebrate body plan.
Days/Times: TTh 3:00PM - 4:15PM
Instructor: Bever, Gabriel S.
Room: Olin 204
Status: Open
Seats Available: 8/20
PosTag(s): BEHB-BIOBEH
AS.271.107 (01)
Introduction to Sustainability
MW 3:00PM - 4:15PM
Kopelent-Rehak, Jana Hana
Olin 305
Spring 2024
Humans are having such a massive impact on Earth systems that some call this the Anthropocene epoch. Should we consider this state of affairs progress or catastrophe? How to we find a sustainable path to the future? This course provides an interdisciplinary introduction to the principles and practice of sustainability, exploring such issues as population, pollution, energy and natural resources, biodiversity, food, justice, and climate change through the lens of systems thinking. Course open to freshmen, sophomores, and juniors. Seniors by instructor permission only.
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Introduction to Sustainability AS.271.107 (01)
Humans are having such a massive impact on Earth systems that some call this the Anthropocene epoch. Should we consider this state of affairs progress or catastrophe? How to we find a sustainable path to the future? This course provides an interdisciplinary introduction to the principles and practice of sustainability, exploring such issues as population, pollution, energy and natural resources, biodiversity, food, justice, and climate change through the lens of systems thinking. Course open to freshmen, sophomores, and juniors. Seniors by instructor permission only.
Days/Times: MW 3:00PM - 4:15PM
Instructor: Kopelent-Rehak, Jana Hana
Room: Olin 305
Status: Open
Seats Available: 11/80
PosTag(s): ENGY-SCIPOL
AS.360.111 (02)
SOUL: Mining and Civilization - Neolithic to Present
Th 1:30PM - 4:00PM
Beaudry, Patrick
Olin 304
Spring 2024
How did geology influence civilization? Major technological advances over the course of human history have relied on the ability to extract and use materials from the Earth. For this, the discovery of ore deposits and understanding of their potential to produce valuable metals such as gold, silver and copper was necessary. In this course, we will explore how human civilization is directly intertwined with the extraction of metal resources from the Earth, and how the location of these resources is controlled by various geological processes. We will identify the key innovations in metallurgical sciences over time and link these to specific geological regions and deposits. We will build upon this historical perspective to evaluate the omnipresent role of mining in the present world. Today, the race against climate change demands the development of new “green” technologies, which require an increasingly diversified array of critical metals, in turn requiring more sophisticated methods in mining and geometallurgy. Class discussions will be based on readings of scientific papers and book chapters in geosciences and archaeology.
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SOUL: Mining and Civilization - Neolithic to Present AS.360.111 (02)
How did geology influence civilization? Major technological advances over the course of human history have relied on the ability to extract and use materials from the Earth. For this, the discovery of ore deposits and understanding of their potential to produce valuable metals such as gold, silver and copper was necessary. In this course, we will explore how human civilization is directly intertwined with the extraction of metal resources from the Earth, and how the location of these resources is controlled by various geological processes. We will identify the key innovations in metallurgical sciences over time and link these to specific geological regions and deposits. We will build upon this historical perspective to evaluate the omnipresent role of mining in the present world. Today, the race against climate change demands the development of new “green” technologies, which require an increasingly diversified array of critical metals, in turn requiring more sophisticated methods in mining and geometallurgy. Class discussions will be based on readings of scientific papers and book chapters in geosciences and archaeology.
Days/Times: Th 1:30PM - 4:00PM
Instructor: Beaudry, Patrick
Room: Olin 304
Status: Waitlist Only
Seats Available: 0/12
PosTag(s): n/a
AS.271.305 (01)
Special Topics in Environmental Studies
T 3:00PM - 5:45PM
Kopelent-Rehak, Jana Hana; Zaitchik, Benjamin Frederick
Olin 304
Spring 2024
Coastal, arctic, and arid ecosystems are significantly affected by climate change. This course invites us to think about small rural communities that have been profoundly affected by climate change. By combining physical climate systems analysis with ethnographic case studies and multiple theoretical models, the course offers insights from the intersection of climate science and anthropology on how the people in these areas interact with their environment over their lives. While examining the inhabitants’ knowledge-based views of climate and local socioecological systems, students in this course will develop more robust, flexible models of anthropological analysis for climate change (in general) and for smaller ecosystems (in particular) in the context of what is known about recent and future projected climate change.
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Special Topics in Environmental Studies AS.271.305 (01)
Coastal, arctic, and arid ecosystems are significantly affected by climate change. This course invites us to think about small rural communities that have been profoundly affected by climate change. By combining physical climate systems analysis with ethnographic case studies and multiple theoretical models, the course offers insights from the intersection of climate science and anthropology on how the people in these areas interact with their environment over their lives. While examining the inhabitants’ knowledge-based views of climate and local socioecological systems, students in this course will develop more robust, flexible models of anthropological analysis for climate change (in general) and for smaller ecosystems (in particular) in the context of what is known about recent and future projected climate change.
Days/Times: T 3:00PM - 5:45PM
Instructor: Kopelent-Rehak, Jana Hana; Zaitchik, Benjamin Frederick
Room: Olin 304
Status: Open
Seats Available: 16/25
PosTag(s): ENVS-MAJOR, ENVS-MINOR
AS.270.323 (01)
Ocean Biogeochemical Cycles
MWF 3:00PM - 3:50PM
Gnanadesikan, Anand
Olin 304
Spring 2024
This course will examine the cycling of trace chemicals in the ocean, consider what we can learn from the distributions of these chemicals about the ocean circulation, and ocean ecosystems. Topics covered will include oceanic biological productivity, open water cycling of nutrients and oxygen, ocean acidification and sediment cycling.
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Ocean Biogeochemical Cycles AS.270.323 (01)
This course will examine the cycling of trace chemicals in the ocean, consider what we can learn from the distributions of these chemicals about the ocean circulation, and ocean ecosystems. Topics covered will include oceanic biological productivity, open water cycling of nutrients and oxygen, ocean acidification and sediment cycling.
Days/Times: MWF 3:00PM - 3:50PM
Instructor: Gnanadesikan, Anand
Room: Olin 304
Status: Open
Seats Available: 13/20
PosTag(s): ENVS-MAJOR, ENVS-MINOR
AS.270.412 (01)
Spring seminar: Geological Field Studies in California
W 8:00AM - 8:50AM
Smith, Emmy
Olin 346
Spring 2024
Field experience is an integral part of a geology student’s education. During this course, students will learn to digitize, synthesize, and interpret the observations they made during the January field-based class to interpret the geologic history and structure of southern California. Study USA: Geological Field Studies in California is a co-requisite for this course.
For Spring 2020, the focus of the field work and course will be on applying concepts and techniques covered in Dynamic Earth (AS.270.220/1), Sedimentary Geology (AS.270.350), Earth History (AS.270.303), Planets, Life and the Universe (AS.020.334), and Isotope Geochemistry (AS.270.331). Sedimentary rocks are spectacularly exposed in this region and record over a billion years of key events in Earth history. Students will learn how these rocks have shaped our understanding of major evolutionary and environmental shifts in Earth’s past, while also learning how to map these units’ regional geographic distribution. Finally, students will also learn about the different tectonic events that have shaped the landscape that we see today in the western United States. The class is designed for upper level E&PS majors and E&PS graduate students.
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Spring seminar: Geological Field Studies in California AS.270.412 (01)
Field experience is an integral part of a geology student’s education. During this course, students will learn to digitize, synthesize, and interpret the observations they made during the January field-based class to interpret the geologic history and structure of southern California. Study USA: Geological Field Studies in California is a co-requisite for this course.
For Spring 2020, the focus of the field work and course will be on applying concepts and techniques covered in Dynamic Earth (AS.270.220/1), Sedimentary Geology (AS.270.350), Earth History (AS.270.303), Planets, Life and the Universe (AS.020.334), and Isotope Geochemistry (AS.270.331). Sedimentary rocks are spectacularly exposed in this region and record over a billion years of key events in Earth history. Students will learn how these rocks have shaped our understanding of major evolutionary and environmental shifts in Earth’s past, while also learning how to map these units’ regional geographic distribution. Finally, students will also learn about the different tectonic events that have shaped the landscape that we see today in the western United States. The class is designed for upper level E&PS majors and E&PS graduate students.
Days/Times: W 8:00AM - 8:50AM
Instructor: Smith, Emmy
Room: Olin 346
Status: Open
Seats Available: 1/10
PosTag(s): ENVS-MAJOR, ENVS-MINOR
AS.270.423 (01)
Planetary Atmospheres
TTh 1:30PM - 2:45PM
Horst, Sarah
Olin 145
Spring 2024
Fundamental concepts and basic principles of chemistry and physics applied to the study of planetary atmospheres. Vertical structure of planetary atmospheres. Atmospheric radiation, thermodynamics, and transport. Principles of photochemistry. Planetary spectroscopy and remote sensing. Upper atmospheres and ionospheres. Evolution and stability of planetary atmospheres. Recommended Course Background: basic physics, chemistry and calculus
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Planetary Atmospheres AS.270.423 (01)
Fundamental concepts and basic principles of chemistry and physics applied to the study of planetary atmospheres. Vertical structure of planetary atmospheres. Atmospheric radiation, thermodynamics, and transport. Principles of photochemistry. Planetary spectroscopy and remote sensing. Upper atmospheres and ionospheres. Evolution and stability of planetary atmospheres. Recommended Course Background: basic physics, chemistry and calculus