GEOS-2403 Earth Materials

An introduction to the classification, identification, and formation of minerals, rocks, and soil. Students in the course will be able to evaluate the processes responsible for the origin of minerals and rocks in solid earth and surficial systems, and to appraise the role of minerals and rocks in the Earth system and society. The laboratory emphasizes methodologies and techniques used to identify and classify common minerals and rocks in hand specimen and thin section. Weekend field trip required; students are responsible for field trip expenses. Three class hours and three laboratory hours per week. (Offered every year.) Prerequisite: GEOS 2400