ESC 2000 - Intro to Earth Science

Course Overview

Using the scientific method, critical thinking skills, data analysis, this course will examine the fundamental processes of the Earth system, composed of an atmosphere, hydrosphere, lithosphere, biosphere, and exosphere, through time. The course will also explore interactions between these spheres, including critical analysis of scientific theories and emphasize Earth’s connections with humans.

Topics

Geology

• Plate Tectonics
• Minerals
• Rocks [Igneous, Sedimentary, & Metamorphic]
• Volcanoes
• Earthquakes
• Faulting & Folding
• Geologic Time

Surface Processes

• Weathering & Mass Movements
• Soils
• Hydrologic Cycle & Rivers
• Groundwater
• Karst
• Deserts & Dunes
• Beaches & Shorelines
• Ocean Water
• Waves, Currents & Tides

Atmosphere & Climate

• Atmosphere & Air Pollution
• Global Heat Balance
• Atmospheric Moisture
• Wind
• Weather Patterns
• Severe Weather
• Climate Change

Course Materials

• Syllabus

• Calendar

• Textbook: Introduction to Earth Science, Second Edition, Laura Neser

Assignments

• Exams
• Earth Science Today