Course description

The Earth is a dynamic and evolving planet, and its present surface is a record of geologic phenomena that act on a time scale that are not observed in the daily events that shape our society. This course will examine periods when geologic and human events coincide (e.g. volcanic eruption or large earthquake) and investigate some of the devastating consequences and costs to society. In addition, we will also explore the way that industrialized societies use Earth resources and dispose of waste and pollution in a geological context.

Work Required:

Exams - A Mid-term and final exam will be given

Labs - Five labs are required

Extra credit - Extra credit will be assigned as points on exams:

1. Small extra credit exercises will be given at random during classes

2. Geohazard top ten list. Each student will be encouraged to keep track of world geohazards that occurred during the semester. Out of these, the top ten in terms of life and monetary costs. Worth up to 10 pts on the final exam! Plus, of those lists turned in, the highest values for each cost will be given an additional rewarded for their effort.

Course outline - Lecture notes

Laboratory

Exam marks by student number

Assessment and allocation of marks

Lecture component

Mid-term examination

Final examination

Top Ten List

25%

40%

Laboratory component

Assignments