GEOL 151 Physical Geology

Physical Geology is the standard one-semester introductory course in the Earth Sciences. It provides an overview of geological materials and the internal and external physical processes acting on the Earth. There are no prerequisites for the course, and no prior knowledge of the subject is assumed. Students wishing to enter the Natural Sciences program must take Physical Geology as early as possible because it is required for most other Geology courses. Mesalands’ Physical Geology is offered every fall, and is a 4-credit course (which includes a compulsory laboratory section).  The course introduces the following topics: Rocks and Minerals, Plate Tectonics, the Earth’s Interior, Surface Processes (climate, weathering, mass movement, groundwater, surface water, glaciers, deserts and shorelines), and Resources (e.g. minerals, fossil fuels). The class is supplemented with online materials available through the College’s WebCT system. Grading is based on tests, a research paper, homework assignments, and laboratory exercises. The textbook for Summer and Fall 2003 is "Dynamic Earth: An Introduction to Physical Geology" 5th ed., by B.J. Skinner, S.C. Porter and J. Park, Wiley" and the lab manual is “Laboratory Manual in Physical Geology” (6th edition, edited by Busch, published by the American Geological Institute). For information about the course content or procedures contact the instructor, Dr. Axel Hungerbuehler, at axelh@mesalands.edu or (575) 461-3466