The climate as a system controlled by the fluid, chemical, geological, and biological dynamics of the earth. Investigation of natural and man-made climate change over the period of 100 to 100 million years, including the greenhouse effects, tectonic climate forcing, astronomic (Milankovitch) cycles, deep ocean circulation, and biological feedback. How past climate is measured. Prereq: one introductory course in Earth Sciences or permission.

Principles for fluid flow in porous media with emphasis on occurrence, location, and development of groundwater but with consideration of groundwater as a transporting medium. Major topics include well hydraulics, regional groundwater flow, exploration techniques, and groundwater modeling. Laboratory exercises involve use of fluid, electrical, and digital computer models to illustrate key concepts. Prereq: ESCI 654. Special fee. Lab.

Course focuses on the application of radiogenic, radioactive and stable isotopes to improve students' knowledge about the processes and timescales relevant to the formation of the planet and solar system, the evolution of the Earth system and interactions in the hydrosphere and biosphere. Topics include geochronology, tracer applications, Earth surface applications, as well as applications in the hydrosphere and biosphere. Systems discussed include the classic radiogenic systems (K-Ar, Rb-Sr, Sm-Nd, Lu-Hf and U-Th-Pb), traditional (H, C, N, O) as well as nontraditional (e.g., Mg, Ca, Fe) stable isotope systems, and radioactive isotopes (e.g., radiocarbon). Course consists of lecture, where students are exposed to these applications, and a lab section to work through any questions on the homework assignments, discuss relevant papers from the literature, and carry out a project. Prereq: MATH 426, CHEM 404. Special fee. Lab.

The geological record of plate tectonics past and present. The first part of the course focuses on modern tectonic settings with an emphasis on plate geometries, geodynamical processes, and sedimentary products. The second part of the course focuses on reconstructing ancient tectonic settings with an emphasis on methodology (paleomagnetism, basin analysis, provenance) and case studies (e.g. India-Asia collision). Field trip. Prereq: ESCI 614 or ESCI 631 or permission. Special fee. Writing intensive.