| Course / Instructor |
Description |
|
Geo 104:
Global Climate Change: Exploring the Past, the Present and Options for the Future
Robert
Newton |
This course seeks to answer the following questions: What do we know about past climate and how do we know it? What causes climate to change? What have been the results of relatively recent climate change on human populations? What is happening today? What is likely to happen in the future? What choices do we have? No prerequisites.
{N} 4 credits. TTh 1:00 - 2:20 |
Geo
105:
Natural Disasters: Understanding and Coping
Robert Burger |
An
analysis of earthquakes, floods, hurricanes, volcanic eruptions,
landslides and tornados. Topics include: the current status
of predicting disasters, how to minimize their impact, public
policy issues, the effect of disasters on the course of human
history, and the record of past great disasters in myth and
legend. Intended for non-science majors. No prerequisites.
{N} 4 credits. MWF 2:40-3:40. |
Geo
106:
Extraordinary Events in the History of Earth, Life and Climate
Bosiljka
Glumac or
Mark
Brandriss |
A journey through the 4.6 billion year long history
of global change focuses on the extraordinary events that shaped
the evolution of the Earth and life. Some of these events
include the origin of life, the buildup of oxygen in the atmosphere,
mass extinctions of dinosaurs and other organisms, continental
glaciations, and the evolution of humans. Discussion
topics also include the changes that humans have been making
to their environments, and the possible consequences and predictions
for the future of our planet. {N}
4 credits.
MWF 11 a.m.-12:10 p.m. |
|
Geo 108:
Oceanography
Sara Pruss
Steven Gaurin (Labs) |
An
introduction to the global marine environment, with emphasis
on seafloor dynamics, submarine topography and sediments,
the nature and circulation of oceanic waters, the oceans' role
in global and regional climate change, coastal processes,
marine biologic productivity, and pollution and exploitation
of the oceans by humans. One field trip to the Massachusetts
coast and one optional oceanographic training cruise. No
prerequisites. {N} 4 credits. MWF 9:00-9:50, Lab M 1:10-4,
Tu 1-3:50, W 1:10-4, or Th 1-3:50. |
|
Geo 109:
The Environment
Amy
Rhodes |
An investigation of the earth's environment and its interrelationship with people, to evaluate how human activity impacts the earth and the sustainability of natural resources. We will study various natural processes important for judging environmental issues currently faced by citizens and governments. Topics include land-use planning within watersheds, water supply, non-renewable and renewable energy, air pollution, and global climate change. No
prerequisites. {N} 4 credits. MW 2:40-3:40; Th 1:00-1:50, Th 3:00-3:50, F 2:40-3:40 |
|
Geo 111:
Intro to Earth Processes and History
Robert
Newton or
Amy
Rhodes
Steven Gaurin (Labs) |
An
exploration of the new concepts that provide a unifying explanation
for the causes of earthquakes and volcanic eruptions and
the formation of mountains, continents and oceans. A discussion
of the origin of life on earth, the patterns of evolution
and extinction in plants and animals, and the rise of humans.
Labs and field trips in the local area will examine evidence
for ancient volcanos, earthquakes, rivers, ice ages and dinosaur
habitats. No prerequisites. {N} 4 credits. MWF 10-10:50,
Lab M 1:10-4;00, Tu 1:00-3:50. |
Geo
112:
Archaeological Geology of Rock Art and Stone Artifacts
Bosiljka
Glumac |
What makes a mineral or a rock particularly useful as a stone tool or attractive as a sculpture? Students in this course will explore this and other questions by applying geological approaches and techniques in studying various examples or rock art and stone artifacts to learn more about human behavior, ecology and cultures in the past. This exploration across traditional boundaries between archaeology and earth science will include background topics of mineral and rock formation, weathering processes, and age determination, as well as investigations of petroglyphs (carvings into stone surfaces), stone artifacts and other artifactual rocks (building stone and sculptures) described in the literature, displayed in museum collections, and found in the field locally. {N} 4 credits TTh 10:30-11:50 a.m. Offered Spring 2009 |
Geo 121:
Geology
in the Field
John Brady |
Same as FYS 134. Clues
to over 500 million years of earth history can be found in
rocks and sediments near Smith College. Students in this
course will attempt to decipher this history by careful examination
of clues in the field. Class meetings will take place principally
outdoors (weather permitting) at interesting geological localities
around the Connecticut Valley. Participants will prepare
regular reports based on their observations and reading,
building to a final paper on the geologic history of the
area. Enrollment limited to 14 first year students. No prerequisites.
{N} 4 credits. M 1:10-5, Th 7:30-8:30 p.m. |
FYS 150:
Sherlock Holmes and the Scientific Method
Larry Meinert |
If it were not for murder and other dastardly deeds, Sherlock Holmes probably would have been a scientist, based upon his classic method involving observations, hypotheses, tests of hypotheses, and finally conclusions. We will read a variety of Sherlock Holmes stories, learn to make geological observations, take field trips to observe natural settings, rivers, cemeteries, and then write our own Sherlock Holmes stories illustrating the scientific method. This is a writing intensive course that requires creativity and the ability to observe and reason, but has no other prerequisites. Enrollment limited to 14 first-year students. {N} 4 Credits. T 1:00-03:00, Th 1:00-04:00 |
Geo 150:
Modeling Our World: An Introduction to Geographic Information Systems
Robert Burger |
Same as EVS 150. A geographic information system (GIS) manages location-based (spatial) information and provides the tools to display and analyze it. GIS provides the capabilities to link databases and maps and to overlay, query, and visualize those databases in order to analyze and solve problems in many diverse fields. This course provides an introduction to the fundamental elements of GIS and connects course activities to GIS applications in landscape architecture, urban and regional planning, archeology, flood management, sociology, coastal studies, environmental health, oceanography, economics, disaster management, cultural anthropology, and art history. Enrollment limited to 20. {N} 4 credits. |
Geo 161:
Exploring the Local Geologic Landscape
Steven Gaurin |
The Connecticut Valley region is rich with geology that can be reached by a short van ride from Smith. This is a field-based course that explores that geology through weekly trips and other assignments. Evidence for volcanoes, dinosaurs, glaciers, ancient lakes, rifting continents, and Himalayan-size mountains in Western Massachusetts will be explored. Enrollment limited to 17. {N} 2 credits. W 1:10-04:00 |
|
Geo 221:
Mineralogy
John
Brady or
Mark
Brandriss |
A project-oriented
study of minerals and the information they contain about
planetary processes. The theory and application to mineralogic
problems of crystallography, crystal chemistry, crystal optics,
x-ray diffraction, quantitative x-ray spectroscopy and other
spectroscopic techniques. The course normally includes a
weekend field trip to important geologic localities in the
Adirondack Mountains. Prequisite: 111, 108, 121 or FYS 134.
{N} 4 credits. T Th 9-10:20, Lab W 7-10pm, Th 1:10-4. |
|
Geo 222:
Petrology
John
Brady or
Mark
Brandriss |
An
examination of typical igneous and metamorphic rocks in the
laboratory and in the field in search of clues to their formation.
Lab work will emphasize the microscopic study of rocks in
thin section. Weekend field trips to Cape Ann and Vermont
are an important part of the course. Prequisite: 221. {N}
4 credits. T Th 9-10:20, Lab Th 1:10-4. |
|
Geo 223j:
Geology of Hawaiian Volcanoes
John
Brady
Mark
Brandriss |
A
field-based course to examine volcanic materials and processes
on the island of Hawaii. Erruptive styles and cycles,
magmatic evolution, lava fountains, flows, lakes, and tubes,
normal faulting, crater formation, landscape development
and destruction are among the topics to be considered. Participants
must be physically fit and prepared for considerable hiking
in rough terrain. Each student will complete a petrographic
report on volcanic rock samples collected on Hawaii. Prerequisites:
completion of an introductory level geology course and permission
of the instructors. {N} 1 credit. Last offered in January,
1999. |
Geo 224j:
Subduction Zone Geology in Greece
John
Brady
Mark
Brandriss |
Subduction of oceanic crust is an important geologic process that is responsible for earthquakes, volcanism, plutonism, and metamorphism. Subduction and its petrologic consequences will be studied in general, and in the context of its expression in the Aegean Sea. Readings and discussion during the spring semester will prepare participants for field study of subduction evidence in Greece from 1-10 June 2007. Prerequisites: completion of an introductory level geology course and permission of the instructors. Enrollment limited to 14. {N} 1 credit. Th 7:30-9 |
|
Geo 231:
Invertebrate Paleontology
and Paleoecology
Sara Pruss |
A study
of the major groups of fossil invertebrates including their
phylogenetic relationships, paleoecology and biostratigraphic
importance. Special topics include speciation, functional
adaptations, paleoenvironments, consideration of the earliest
forms of life, and the record of extinctions. Weekend field
trip to New York State. Prequisite: 111, 108, 121 or FYS
134. {N} 4 credits. MWF 10-10:50, Lab W 1:10-4. |
|
Geo 232:
Sedimentology
Bosiljka
Glumac |
A project-oriented
study of the processes and products of sediment formation,
transport, deposition and lithification. Modern sediments
and depositional environments of the Massachusetts coast
are examined and compared with ancient sedimentary rocks
of the Connecticut River Valley and eastern New York. Field
and laboratory analyses focus on the description and classification
of sedimentary rocks, and on the interpretation of their
origin. The results provide unique insights into the
geologic history of eastern North America. Two weekend
field trips. Prerequisite: 111a or b, 108b, or
121a. {N} 4 credits T Th 10:30-11:50 a.m. Lab T 1-3:50 p.m. |
|
Geo 235j:
Scanning Electron Microscopy and Energy Dispersive
X-Ray Microanalysis
John
Brady
Richard Brigg (Bio)
Robert Newton |
An
introduction to the principles and practice of scanning electron
microscopy and energy dispersive X-ray microanalysis with
emphasis on biological and geological applications. Topics
covered in lecture and laboratory include electron optics,
instrument design, operational parameter, interpretation
of micrographs, specimen preparation, photographic processes,
and acquisition and processing of X-ray spectra. Independent
research projects applying scanning electron microscopy and/or
X-ray micro analysis will be carried out by students. Four
three-hour lectures and daily laboratory work, including
discussions and demonstrations. {N} 1 credit. Last offered
in 2000. |
|
Geo 241:
Structural
Geology
Robert
Burger |
The
study and interpretation of rock structures, with emphasis
on the mechanics of deformation, behavior of rock materials,
and methods of analysis. Weekend field trip to Connecticut
and New York State. Prerequisite: 111, 121, FYS 134, or any
200-level geology course. {N} 4 credits. MWF 9-9:50, Lab
Tu 1-3:50. |
|
Geo 246j:
Geology of Death Valley
Robert
Burger
Bosiljka
Glumac |
This
field-oriented course will examine the diverse geology of
Death Valley including its geomorphological evolution and
its structural and volcanic history. Special attention will
be directed to those processes currently modifying Death
Valley's landscape. Each student will be involved in an independent
study project selected from: neotechtonics, recent volcanic
activity or currently active geomorphologic processes. Prerequisites:
111 or equivalent and permission of the instructors. {N}
4 credits. To be offered in Spring 2001. |
|
Geo 251:
Geomorphology
Robert
Newton |
The
study of landforms and their significance in terms of the
processes that form them. Selected reference is made to examples
in the New England region and classic landforms of the world.
Prerequisite: 111, 108, 121 or FYS 134. {N} 4 credits. MWF
10-10:50, Lab M 1:10-4. |
|
Geo 270j:
Carbonate Systems and Coral Reefs of the Bahamas
Bosiljka Glumac
Sara Pruss
Allen
Curran |
A field-oriented
course to examine in detail the diverse carbonate sediment-producing,
modern environments typical of the Bahama Islands, including
a variety of shallow subtidal shelf environments, coral reefs,
lagoons, beaches, dunes and lakes. The Quaternary rocks that
cap the islands will be studied to establish paleoenvironmental
analogues to the modern environments and to understand better
the processes that modify sediments in the transition to
the rock record. Students will conduct an individual or small
group project. Prerequisites: completion of an introductory
level geology course and permission of the instructors. Offered
in alternate years. {N} 3 credits. To be offered in January,
2006. |
|
Geo 301:
Aqueous Geochemistry
Amy
Rhodes |
The
study of geochemical reactions that result from the interaction
of natural waters with geological materials. Emphasis will
be on the processes that govern transportation of metals
in surface waters, such as rivers and streams, and hydrothermal
fluids associated with ore deposit formation Principles to
be covered include alkalinity and pH, equilibrium thermodynamics,
mineral solubility, metal complexation, redox reactions and
stable isotope geochemistry. The laboratory will include
field trips to local watersheds and an abandoned mine. Prerequisites:
CHM 111 or equivalent is strongly recommended; CHM 224 or
equivalent strongly suggested. {N} 4 credits. MWF 10-10:50,
Lab M 1-3:50. |
|
Geo 309:
Groundwater Geology
Robert
Newton |
A study
of the occurrence, movement and exploitation of water in
geologic materials. Topics include well hydraulics, groundwater
chemistry, the relationship of geology to groundwater occurance,
basin-wide groundwater development and groundwater contamination.
A class project will involve studying a local groundwater
problem. Offered in alternate years. Prerequisite: 111, 108,
121 or FYS 134, and MTH 111. {N} 4 credits. |
|
Geo 311a:
Environmental
Geophysics
Robert
Burger |
Theory
and environmental applications of geophysical techniques
including reflection and refraction seismology, gravimetry,
electrical resistivity and magnetics. Extensive fieldwork
including delineating aquifer geometries, determining buried
landfill boundaries and mapping leachate plumes. Prerequisites:
two geology courses at the intermediate level and MTH 111.
{N} 4 credits. MWF 9-9:50, Lab Tu 1-3:50. |
Geo 334:
Carbonate Sedimentology
Bosiljka Glumac |
A detailed study of the formation, deposition, lithification, and diagenesis of carbonate sediments. Topics include modern carbonate-producing environments and the history of carbonate rocks from the Precambrian to the present. Class meetings will include faculty and student presentations and practical work with thin sections and hand samples. One weekend field trip to classic carbonate localities in New York State. Prerequisite: 232. Enrollment limited to 14. {N} 4 credits
Offered Spring 2006-2007 MWF 11:00-12:10, W1:10-4:00 |
|
Geo 355:
Senior Seminar
Allen
Curran
Paulette Peckol (Biology) |
Topic
for 1999-00: Geology and Biology of Coral Reefs: Past, Present
and Future. Open to seniors and qualified juniors with permission
of the instructor. {N} 3 credits. T 1-2:50. |
|
Geo 361:
Tectonics and Earth History
Bosiljka
Glumac or
Mark
Brandriss |
A study
of the interactions between global tectonic processes, continental
growth and evolution, the formation and destruction of marine
basins, and the history of life as revealed in the rocks
and fossils of planet Earth. Prerequisites: all intermediate-level
required courses in geology, any of which may be taken concurrently;
geology minors with permission of the instructor. {N} 4 credits.
TTh 10:30-11:50. |
Geo 370:
Economic Geology
Larry Meinert |
Since pre-history all civilizations have used natural resources for food, shelter, and clothing. Economic geology focuses on the discovery and understanding of natural resources, particularly metals such as copper, iron, gold, and silver. This course focuses upon the geological and geochemical processes that concentrate elements to economic levels. Since ore deposits can occur in almost all rock types, this course builds on other geology courses to better understand how ore deposits have formed in the past and how we can use knowledge of existing deposits to make new discoveries. Prerequisite: GEO 222 (may be taken concurrently), or permission of the instructor. {N} 4 credits. MWF 11:00-12:10 Lab W 1:10-4:00 |
|
Geo 400
Special Studies
Members of
the Department will advise. |
Advanced
Work or Special Problems in Geology. Admission by permission
of the department. |
Geo 430 or 432
Thesis
Members of
the Department will advise. |
Thesis. Must meet Honors Thesis eligibility requirements.
Geo 430 Credits: 4 per semester, 8 for yearlong course.
Geo 432 Credits: 6 per semester, 12 for yearlong course. |
