211 Physical Geology. (4)

212 Evolution of the Earth. (4)

Program Director: Larry Davis

Faculty: Larry Davis

The record of life from primitive organisms in ancient seas to complex plant and animal forms is interrelated with the evolutionary changes and processes of the earth. The study of geology deals with fascinating and practical questions about the materials composing the earth and the many processes that operate beneath and upon the earth’s surface. Exploring such questions fosters understanding of the magnitude of the changes which human demands and human activities have worked upon the earth. Therefore it is essential in developing an appropriate response to today’s environmental crisis.

The colleges have a valuable, extensive museum-quality collection of minerals, rocks and fossils as well as an excellent collection for student use. A special classroom is designed for storage of these collections, as well as for class meetings and laboratory sessions.

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211 Physical Geology. (4)

A study of the composition of the earth and its dynamic systems. One system, using solar and gravitational energy, involves the processes of weathering, erosion and deposition of sediments by the atmosphere, wind, rivers, ground water and glaciers. The other system, using internal energy of the earth, is tectonic. This involves movement of material in the earth’s interior resulting in plate movement which creates and destroys the crust and results in volcanism, earthquakes and mountain-building. Laboratory and field trips required.

212 Evolution of the Earth. (4)  [Top]

A study of what the earth can tell us about the geological evolution of this planet, with an emphasis on events affecting the North American Continent. This course identifies how we infer past events and regional surface conditions from the rocks exposed at the earth’s surface, and then proceeds to consider how North America and its lifeforms have changed over the last 3 billion years. Both the rock record and fossil record are closely examined, as these provide the fundamental clues that reveal evolutionary changes in the earth’s crust and in life. Laboratory and field trips required.

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