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The course examines the dynamic interactions between the geosphere, hydrosphere, atmosphere, and biosphere determine the natural conditions of Earth at all spatial and temporal scales.
This course covers the fundamental chemical and physical processes at work within the earth system from a geological perspective through a combination of knowledge-based and applied teaching approaches. Lectures will both transfer knowledge and engage students in case studies. Laboratory exercises will apply lecture material to a variety of physical, chemical, and numerical problems. Topics to be covered include: biogeochemistry; hydrology & hydrogeology; low temperature geochemistry; geochronology.These interactions cycle matter and energy through the earth system via coupled chemical and physical processes. For example, the tectonic uplift of mountain belts alter atmospheric circulation patterns which in turn influence regional climate conditions promoting revisions to biodiversity. The time scale over which such events operate, and the specific age at which certain events occur in the geological record, represent the foundations of geochronology. Understanding the processes that link significant chemical and physical changes in the earth system through time is a core component of modern geological science.
Students successfully completing GEOL245 will:know fundamental chemical reactions occurring in the Earth system.know the processes that define the global biogeochemical cycles.know how to calculate absolute ages using geochronologic methods.understand the physical processes governing the transport of water through surface and subsurface systems.understand how changes in one component of the Earth system will impact other components of the Earth system.The topics coved by this course are:BiogeochemistryLow-Temperature GeochemistryHydrologyHydrogeologyAqueous GeochemistryGeochronology
GEOL111 and GEOL112, or, with a B+ average, ora standard acceptable to the Head of Department, GEOL113 may be substituted for GEOL111 or 112. In addition 15 points from GEOG, BIOL, CHEM or MATH100 courses. RP: 100-level MATH course is strongly recommended.
GEOL234
100-level MATH course is strongly recommended.
Travis Horton
Tim Stahl (Geological Sciences)
There are no required textbooks for this course. However, you will be required to read assigned material posted on-line and/or placed on-reserve in the central library as indicated by your course instructors. Your final examination will assess your understanding of these assigned readings.
Library portal
Domestic fee $718.00
International fee $3,350.00
* All fees are inclusive of NZ GST or any equivalent overseas tax, and do not include any programme level discount or additional course-related expenses.
This course will not be offered if fewer than 30 people apply to enrol.
For further information see Geological Sciences .