ESC 104 - Physical Geology 4 cr.

This course is an introduction to physical geology and a study of Earth materials and the physical processes that alter them over time. Topics covered include minerals; igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic rocks; earth resources; plate tectonics; earthquakes; volcanism; weathering and erosion; streams; groundwater; glaciers and the Ice Age; desert landforms; and shoreline processes. In the laboratory, students learn to identify common minerals and rocks, to use topographic and geologic maps, and to recognize structures and landforms in the field. This course includes several local field trips during regular lab time and an all‐day Saturday field trip. 3 hrs. lect.; 3 hrs. lab. Corequisite: ENG 101 and MAT 105 or higher.