Course Schedule and Catalog

Long Title: EARTH AND PLANETARY CHEMISTRY AND MATERIALS

Department: Earth/Environmnt/Planetary Sci

Grade Mode: Standard Letter

Language of Instruction: Taught in English

Course Type: Lecture/Laboratory

Credit Hours: 4

Prerequisite(s): ESCI 101 OR ESCI 107 OR ESCI 108 OR ESCI 110 OR ESCI 111 OR ESCI 115 OR ESCI 301 OR EEPS 101 OR EEPS 108 OR EEPS 110 OR EEPS 111

Description: This course introduces chemistry of the Solar System materials and geochemical cycles in Earth and rocky planets through whole planet scale cycles. Specific topics include rock-forming processes related to the chemical and physical differentiation of the solid Earth and terrestrial planets into their main reservoirs, e.g., continental crust, oceanic crust, mantle, and core. Beginning with the bulk composition of planetary bodies, and an overview of the chemical and petrologic properties of the rocks that make up each of these reservoirs, the basic principles of petrology and geochemistry will be presented in the context of the rock cycle, plate tectonics, as well as the origin of economically and societally important ore deposits. Some basic concepts as to how the whole planet scale processes influence the chemistry of surface environment of Earth will be also be introduced. A laboratory and field trip, where students will see petrologic and geochemical principles applied, will be required. Recommended Prerequisite(s): MATH 101 and MATH 102, PHYS 101 or 111, and CHEM 121 or CHEM 151