Earth and Planetary Sciences 6. Introduction to Environmental Science: The Solid Earth
Catalog Number: 2694
Göran Ekström
Half course (spring term). Tu., Th., 11:30–1:00; laboratories and section require one afternoon per week. EXAM GROUP: 13, 14
An introduction to geology, with emphasis on environmental problems and hazards. Introduction to methods of risk assessment. Natural disasters: earthquakes; volcanos; landslides; floods. Short-and long-term impact of human activity on the geological environment: radon and hazardous materials; drainage patterns and dams; ground water and subsidence. The development of scientific topics will form the bases for discussion of methods of risk reduction through policy and legislation.
Note: EPS 6 may not be counted for a degree in addition to EPS 7.
Earth and Planetary Sciences 7. Introduction to Geological Sciences
Catalog Number: 0918
Adam M. Dziewonski and Roberta L. Rudnick
Half course (fall term). M., W., F., at 10; three hours of laboratory work each week and two day-long field trips on separate weekends required. EXAM GROUP: 3
An introduction to Earth science designed for concentrators in geological, environmental, and geophysical sciences. Origin of the Earth, its age and its evolution with an emphasis on the processes that shaped our planet. The theory of plate tectonics is used as a broad framework to explain the occurrence and distribution of earthquakes, volcanoes and mountains, and to explore the history of the Earth’s surface. Labs and the weekend field trip familiarize students with rock types, geological features, and maps, and expose them to how geologists infer processes from the rock record.
Note: Also appropriate for non-EPS concentrators who desire a comprehensive introduction to Earth science.
Earth and Planetary Sciences 8. History of the Earth
Catalog Number: 0166
Paul F. Hoffman and Daniel P. Schrag
Half course (spring term). M., W., F., at 10; two hours of laboratory per week and two one-day field trips. EXAM GROUP: 3
This course examines the major stages and critical events in the history of the earth with emphasis on the interactions between global tectonics, ocean-atmosphere processes (climate), and biological evolution. We will consider all time scales, from the formation of the earth and other planets, to catastrophic events that drove mass extinctions, to the most recent period of human interaction with the environment. Lectures will focus not only on descriptions of critical intervals, but also on what evidence exists to support these descriptions. Laboratories introduce methods of investigation and analysis of the geological record.
Note: This is one of three required introductory courses for EPS concentrators, along with EPS5 and EPS7.
Prerequisite: Secondary-school courses in science (physics, chemistry, biology) and calculus.
[Earth and Planetary Sciences 30. Environmental Microbiology]
Catalog Number: 4935
Ralph Mitchell
Half course (fall term). Hours to be arranged.
Microbial processes in natural habitats, including biogeochemical cycles and metal transformations. Evolution of microorganisms and the development of survival strategies are discussed. Includes discussions of microbial processes in specific habitats including fresh waters, marine, and soil. Emphasis is placed on the effects of environmental deterioration and the responses of the microbial community.
Note: Expected to be given in 2000–01.
Prerequisite: An introductory biology course, either at the high school or college level.
Earth and Planetary Sciences 50. Planetary Materials
Catalog Number: 4726
Marcus R. Van Baalen
Half course (fall term). M., W., F., at 11, plus three hours per week of laboratory. EXAM GROUP: 4
An introduction to the physical and chemical properties of rocks and minerals — the materials of the solid Earth and other solar system bodies. Fundamentals of structures, crystal chemistry, mineral physics, and phase equilibria are presented. Explores how the physical properties of rocks and minerals stem from their ordered internal atomic arrangements. Laboratory emphasizes hand sample identification, optical mineralogy, and x-ray diffraction methods.
Prerequisite: One basic earth science course (e.g., EPS 7 or Science A-24), and Chemistry 5 or Chemistry 10 (may be taken concurrently).
Earth and Planetary Sciences 71. Structural Geology and Tectonics
Catalog Number: 0319
John H. Shaw
Half course (spring term). Tu., Th., 1–2:30; two hours of laboratory work per week. EXAM GROUP: 15, 16
An introduction to deformation of Earth materials, including mountain building and plate tectonics, faulting and earthquakes, folding, and ductile deformation. Forces acting on rocks and strains will be examined for a variety of pressure and temperature conditions. Rock fracture and faulting will be studied through numerical approaches, analog experiments, geologic maps, and cross sections. Ductile deformation mechanisms will be examined through microscopic investigation of rock fabrics. Labs will introduce modern applications of structural geology to the energy and environmental industries and for assessing earthquake hazards by using balanced cross sections, seismic reflection data, and satellite imagery.
Prerequisite: EPS 7 or permission of instructor.
*Earth and Planetary Sciences 74. Field Geology
Catalog Number: 7239
Paul F. Hoffman
Half course (fall term). Hours to be arranged.
Methods of observation and documentation of the Earth’s rock record. Approximately four weeks of field observation are followed by the preparation of a detailed geologic report.
Note: Students must notify EPS Head Tutor and instructors of intention to enroll by May 1 of the preceding spring term.
Prerequisite: EPS 7, 50 and 71, are recommended, or permission of instructor.
[Earth and Planetary Sciences 80. Sedimentary Record of Earth History]
Catalog Number: 4391
Paul F. Hoffman
Half course (spring term). Hours to be arranged.
Sediments and sedimentary processes on continents, continental margins, and in the oceans. Formation of sedimentary basins in different tectonic settings. Methods used to study and interpret sedimentary records, including sedimentology, stratigraphy, paleomagnetism, stable and radiogenic isotopes, and other geochemical and geophysical techniques. Overview of earth history and the history of life as revealed in the sedimentary record.
Note: Expected to be given in 2000–01.
Prerequisite: One basic earth science course (e.g., EPS 5, EPS 6, EPS 7, Science A-30, Science A-37, Science B-16, or Science B-34) or permission of the instructor.
*Earth and Planetary Sciences 91r. Supervised Reading and Research
Catalog Number: 1462
Richard J. O’Connell and Members of the Department
Half course (fall term; repeated spring term). Hours to be arranged.
Note: Intended for junior or senior concentrators in Earth and Planetary Sciences; open to sophomore concentrators only under exceptional circumstances. Permission of the faculty member under whom the student wants to work and of the Head Tutor is required for enrollment. May be counted for concentration only with the special permission of the Head Tutor.
*Earth and Planetary Sciences 99. Tutorial — Senior Year
Catalog Number: 7120
Richard J. O’Connell and Members of the Department
Full course. Hours to be arranged.
Note: Senior honors candidates must take at least one term of this course (fall or spring) if writing a thesis. Signature of the Head Tutor required for enrollment.
Earth and Planetary Sciences 107. Environmental Geochemistry
Catalog Number: 1242
Daniel P. Schrag
Half course (spring term). Tu., Th., 10-11:30. One hour each week of laboratory and discussion. EXAM GROUP: 12, 13
This course offers an overview of low-temperature geochemistry through the treatment of a selection of geochemical issues of environmental significance. The course will contain four units: Radioactivity, Metals in the Earth, Carbon Cycle, and Climate Change. Each unit will cover issues of environmental significance in the context of a broader geological perspective with particular emphasis on chemical principles. Students from all concentrations are welcome.
Prerequisite: A course in college-level chemistry or permission from the instructor.
Earth and Planetary Sciences 108. Environmental Geology and Earth Resources
Catalog Number: 4116
Stein B. Jacobsen and John H. Shaw
Half course (spring term). Tu., Th., 8:30–10. EXAM GROUP: 10, 11
An overview of the Earth’s energy/material resources and the occurrence of elements and isotopes of environmental importance. Hydrocarbons (oil, natural gas, coal), nuclear fuels, economically important ores. Scientific methods used to exploit these resources and the environmental impacts of these operations. Distribution of resources and radioactive elements. Methods of discovering and extracting resources. Exploration risks and economics. Radioactive waste. Mitigating environmental hazards. Isotropic tracers of contamination. Distribution of naturally occurring toxic elements. Geochemical transport and kinetics in soils and rocks. Global cycles of toxic elements such as lead and mercury. Volcanism and the chemical composition of volcanic rocks. Dust and meteorites added to the Earth from space.
Prerequisite: EPS 6 or 7, Chemistry 5 and 7, and Mathematics 1, or permission of the instructor.
Earth and Planetary Sciences 131. Introduction to Physical Oceanography
Catalog Number: 2249
Allan R. Robinson
Half course (spring term). Tu., Th., 1–2:30. EXAM GROUP: 15, 16
Elements of the physics and dynamics of the world’s oceans. The observational basis and the fundamental concepts and models required for describing and understanding the range of phenomena that occur on many time and space scales. Water masses, circulation, currents, eddies, waves, microstructure, and turbulence. The implication of physical oceanography for interdisciplinary research, including climate and biogeochemical cycles and ecosystems.
Prerequisite: Mathematics 21, Physics 11 or 15, or permission of instructor.
Earth and Planetary Sciences 132. Introduction to Meteorology
Catalog Number: 8495
Brian F. Farrell
Half course (fall term). Tu., Th., 10–11:30. EXAM GROUP: 12, 13
Physical concepts necessary to understand atmospheric structure and motion. Phenomena studied include the formation of clouds and precipitation, solar and terrestrial radiation, dynamical balance of the large-scale wind, and the origin of cyclones. Concepts developed for understanding today’s atmosphere are applied to understanding the record of past climate change and the prospects for climate change in the future.
Prerequisite: Mathematics 21, Physics 11 or 15, or permission of instructor.
Earth and Planetary Sciences 133. Introduction to Atmospheric Chemistry
Catalog Number: 7731
Daniel J. Jacob
Half course (fall term). Tu., Th., 1–2:30. EXAM GROUP: 15
A fundamental introduction to the physical and chemical processes determining the composition of the atmosphere and its implications for climate, ecosystems, and human welfare. Origin of the atmosphere. Nitrogen, oxygen, carbon, sulfur cycles. Climate and the greenhouse effect. Atmospheric transport and turbulence. Stratospheric ozone. Oxidizing power of the atmosphere. Regional air pollution: aerosols, smog, acid rain. Combustion chemistry. Air pollution control engineering.
Prerequisite: Physics 1, Chemistry 10 or 7, and Mathematics 1.
[Earth and Planetary Sciences 136. Marine Chemistry]
Catalog Number: 3066
James N. Butler
Half course (spring term). Hours to be arranged.
Topics: Composition of sea water. Activity coefficients and ion pairs. Alkalinity. Carbon dioxide and carbonate minerals. Ocean-atmosphere interactions. Complexation of trace metals. Sediment-water interactions. Oxidation and reduction. Nutrient cycling. Interaction of physical, chemical, and biological processes in the ocean. Marine pollution.
Note: Expected to be given in 2000–01.
Prerequisite: Chemistry 10 or equivalent.
Earth and Planetary Sciences 137. Biogeochemistry
Catalog Number: 1923
John M. Hayes
Half course (fall term). W., F., 3–4:15. EXAM GROUP: 8, 9
The chemistry of carbon and its redox partners in natural environments, specifically processes in the oceanic water column and in sedimentary microbial communities. Organic geochemical and isotopic records of the development of these processes over time and of their effects on the global environment.
Note: Expected to be omitted in 2000–01.
Earth and Planetary Sciences 140. Geochemical Thermodynamics
Catalog Number: 1960
Stein B. Jacobsen
Half course (fall term). Tu., Th., 8:30–10. EXAM GROUP: 10, 11
An introduction to the application of equilibrium thermodynamics to problems in earth and planetary sciences. The laws of thermodynamics. Thermodynamic functions. Conditions for thermodynamic equalibrium and spontaneous transformations. Systems of variable chemical composition. Partial molar quantities. Selection of components and the Gibbs phase rule. Chemography and petrogenetic grids. Conditions for heterogeneous and homogeneous equilibrium. Equilibrium constants. Fugacities and activities. Entropy of mixing in ideal solid solutions. Calculation of binary and ternary phase diagrams. Conditions for stability. Excess functions. Mixed volatile equilibria. Thermodynamics of aqueous solutions. Examples and problems drawn primarily from igneous and metamorphic petrology and geochemistry.
Note: Expected to be omitted in 2000–01. Given in alternate years.
Prerequisite: Chemistry 10 or equivalent; Mathematics 21a (may be taken concurrently).
[Earth and Planetary Sciences 141. Isotope and Trace Element Geochemistry and Geochronology]
Catalog Number: 7724
Stein B. Jacobsen
Half course (fall term). Hours to be arranged.
An introduction to the application of isotope geochemistry to the problems in earth and planetary sciences. The element and isotope distribution in the Earth and the Solar System. Closed system radioactive decay, Isotope fractionation, Mass balance, mixing and dilution. Radiogenic isotopes. Application of Rb-Sr, Sm-Nd, U-Th-Pb, Re-Os and K-Ar isotope systems for geochronology and as tracers for geological processes. Noble gas geochemistry. Extinct nuclides. Cosmogenic nuclides. U-series nuclides and their application to Quaternary chronology. Planetary isotopic evolution. Stable isotope geochemistry. Application of H, C, N, O and S isotopes as tracers of geochemical and biogeochemical processes.
Note: Expected to be given in 2000–01. Given in alternate years.
Prerequisite: Chemistry 10 or equivalent; EPS 6 or 7 or equivalent (recommended).
Earth and Planetary Sciences 151. Introduction to Igneous and Metamorphic Petrology
Catalog Number: 3421
Roberta L. Rudnick
Half course (spring term). M., W., F., at 11, and three hours of laboratory each week, W., at 2. EXAM GROUP: 4
Focuses on principal environments and processes of formation of common igneous, and metamorphic rocks. Topics include construction and interpretation of phase diagrams; models for melt generation and crystallization; recrystallization processes; thermal models of metamorphism; pressure, temperature, composition, and time as variables. Emphasizes relationship between rock-forming processes and plate tectonic setting. Laboratory examinations of selected rock suites in thin section and hand sample, and analyses of minerals by electron microscope.
Note: Recommended for graduate students in petrology and geochemistry.
Prerequisite: EPS 50 and EPS 7.
Earth and Planetary Sciences 161 (formerly Earth and Planetary Sciences 61). Global Tectonics
Catalog Number: 1854
Richard J. O’Connell and Jeroen Tromp
Half course (fall term). Tu., Th., 2:30–4. EXAM GROUP: 16, 17
Overview of geophysical and geological observations and phenomena related to large-scale tectonic processes. Plate tectonics; marine magnetic and paleomagnetic measurements; heat flow and thermal evolution of oceanic plates; earthquakes and volcanoes at plate boundaries. The rigid and nonrigid behavior of lithospheric plates; rates of crustal deformation; earthquakes within continents; mountain building and the support and evolution of mountain belts.
Prerequisite: One basic earth science course (e.g., EPS 7 or Science A-24) or permission of instructor. Recommended: Applied Mathematics or Mathematics 21, Physics 11a or 15a.
Earth and Planetary Sciences 166. Introduction to Seismology
Catalog Number: 1540
Adam M. Dziewonski
Half course (fall term). Tu., Th., 10–11:30. EXAM GROUP: 12, 13
Causes, occurrence, and properties of earthquakes. Earthquakes and tectonics, seismic risk, volcanic eruptions. Propagation of seismic waves, physical properties of the Earth’s crust, core, and mantle. Seismographs and interpretation of recordings of earthquakes. Some aspects of the required mathematical methods (e.g., Fourier transform) are explained.
Prerequisite: Mathematics 21a and 21b or Applied Mathematics 21a and 21b (may be taken concurrently).
Earth and Planetary Sciences 167. Applied Geophysics
Catalog Number: 5143
Adam M. Dziewonski
Half course (spring term). Tu., Th., 10–11:30. One or two days of field work required. EXAM GROUP: 12, 13
Geophysical methods used to prospect for oil and minerals and to address environmental problems such as ground water level, radioactive waste storage, estimation of seismic risk. Theory, instrumentation and interpretation of seismic, gravity, electrical and electromagnetic methods.
Prerequisite: Mathematics 21a and 21b or Applied Mathematics 21a and 21b. Some of the required mathematical tools are explained during the course.
[Earth and Planetary Sciences 181. Invertebrate Paleontology]
Catalog Number: 5162
Andrew H. Knoll and Stephen J. Gould
Half course (spring term). Hours to be arranged. EXAM GROUP: 6
Principles of paleontology and a survey of the major invertebrate taxa. An emphasis on the nature and completeness of the fossil record, taphonomy, taxonomy, systematics, heterochrony, functional and theoretical morphology. Discussion of the importance of fossils for biostratigraphy, paleoecology, and evolutionary theory. Hierarchical views of evolutionary processes: micro- and macroevolution, background and mass extinctions. Morphology and distribution in time and space of fossil invertebrates.
Note: Expected to be given in 2000–01.
Prerequisite: Either Science B-16, Biological Sciences 2 (formerly Biology 2), or permission of instructor.
Earth and Planetary Sciences 201. Physics of the Earth’s Interior
Catalog Number: 4004
Richard J. O’Connell
Half course (fall term). M., W., 2–3:30. EXAM GROUP: 7, 8
Comprehensive review of the physics of Earth’s interior. Deals primarily with the solid behavior of the Earth. Topics include: continuum mechanics; elastic and viscous materials; physics of solids; thermodynamics; solid body rotational dynamics; and potential theory. Applications include: seismic waves and the structure and state of the Earth’s interior; elastic and viscous deformation of the mantle and lithosphere; gravity field; Earth rotation and dynamics; mantle convection and heat transport.
Prerequisite: Applied Mathematics 105a and 105b, Physics 15 or equivalent. Preparation should be discussed with the instructor.
Earth and Planetary Sciences 202. Introduction to the Dynamics of Atmospheres and Oceans
Catalog Number: 2624
Allan R. Robinson
Half course (fall term). Tu., Th., 1–2:30. EXAM GROUP: 15, 16
Conceptual, dynamical and observational bases of the geophysical fluid dynamics of the atmosphere and the ocean. Waves, instabilities and turbulence in notating stratified fluids. Potential vorticity, quasigeostrophic dynamics, weather and eddies. The general circulations of the atmosphere, the ocean and the coupled air-sea climate system.
Prerequisite: Applied Mathematics 105b, Physics 11 or 15, or equivalent.
[Earth and Planetary Sciences 205. Inverse Theory and Time Series Analysis]
Catalog Number: 4426
Adam M. Dziewonski
Half course (fall term). Hours to be arranged.
Techniques of data analysis and reduction in the Earth sciences. Topics: statistical parameter estimation; Backus-Gilbert linear inference; generalized inversion; stochastic inversion; Bayesian inference and confidence set inference; Fourier series and transforms, discrete Fourier transforms; digital filter design; multichannel filtration.
Note: Expected to be given in 2000–01.
Prerequisite: Applied Mathematics 105a,b.
Earth and Planetary Sciences 206. Space Geodesy for Earth Scientists
Catalog Number: 8218
James L. Davis
Half course (spring term). Tu., Th., 1–2:30. EXAM GROUP: 15, 16
Space geodesy for the study of the solid Earth, the atmosphere, and the ocean. The determination of geophysical signals from space geodetic observables. Topics include the Global Positioning System, very long baseline interferometry, satellite-laser ranging, the TOPEX/POSEIDON altimeter, interferometric SAR, and several future space missions.
*Earth and Planetary Sciences 207r. Geochemical Oceanography
Catalog Number: 1602
Daniel P. Schrag
Half course (fall term). Hours to be arranged.
Topics in low-temperature geochemistry, oceanography, and climatology will be discussed. Students will read and present journal articles on relevant topics, and will rotate responsibility for leading discussions.
Earth and Planetary Sciences 221. Topics in Environmental Microbiology
Catalog Number: 7183
Ralph Mitchell
Half course (fall term). Hours to be arranged.
Discussion of current research on environmental microbiology. Bioremediation of hazardous chemicals. New approaches to pest control. Ecological disturbances and emergent new diseases. The fate of genetically engineered microorganisms. Indicators of water-borne disease.
Prerequisite: An introductory biology course.
*Earth and Planetary Sciences 231. Physical and Dynamical Oceanography
Catalog Number: 6492
Allan R. Robinson
Half course (spring term). Hours to be arranged.
Theory and observation of the general ocean circulation and its variabilities; the fields of temperature, salinity, and density of the ocean; relationship to intermediate and small scale transient and turbulent processes. Topics in interdisciplinary dynamics of the sea.
Prerequisite: Applied Mathematics 105b or permission of instructor; should ordinarily be taken after EPS 202.
Earth and Planetary Sciences 232. Dynamic Meteorology
Catalog Number: 5344
Brian F. Farrell
Half course (spring term). Tu., Th., 10–11:30. EXAM GROUP: 12, 13
The atmosphere understood as a fluid dynamical system. Observations of atmospheric motions on a wide range of scales and the relation of these motions to weather and climate. Applications of the equations governing atmospheric dynamics and thermodynamics to specific phenomena including cyclogenesis, stationary waves, and the formation of fronts.
Prerequisite: Applied Mathematics 105b or permission of instructor.
Earth and Planetary Sciences 235. Chemical Oceanography
Catalog Number: 8335
Heinrich D. Holland
Half course (spring term). M., W., 2–4. EXAM GROUP: 7, 8
Analysis of the oceans and atmosphere as a chemical system today, in the near future, and in the past. Topics include inputs to and outputs from the oceans, internal cycling of elements and compounds, coupling of the geochemical cycle of elements, probable effects of fossil fuel burning on the oceans during the next century, and the chemical evolution of sea water during the last billion years.
Prerequisite: Chemistry 10 or 40, EPS 100b, EPS 136 or equivalent, Math 21a.
Earth and Planetary Sciences 236. Atmospheric Physics
Catalog Number: 7250
Steven C. Wofsy and Daniel J. Jacob
Half course (spring term). M., W., 1–2:30. EXAM GROUP: 6, 7
A comprehensive treatment of the chemical cycles of gases and aerosols containing carbon, hydrogen, nitrogen, oxygen, and sulfur on the earth. Biologican and geochemical mechanisms regulating global processes will e discussed in the framework of observations of the earth system. Global atmospheric change in response to human and natural influences and the origin and evolution of atmospheric gases will be examined.
Note: Students specializing in this area are expected to take EPS 200 and 236. These courses may serve as an introduction to atmospheric and oceanic processes for other students with strong preparation.
Prerequisite: Applied Mathematics 105b (may be taken concurrently), Physics 11 or 15, and Chemistry 10, or more advanced courses; or permission of the instructors.
[Earth and Planetary Sciences 240. Geochemical Kinetics]
Catalog Number: 0187
Stein B. Jacobsen
Half course (spring term). Hours to be arranged.
Irreversible thermodynamics, heat flow and diffusion equations and K-U-Th geochemistry. Mass transfer between reservoirs; mantle and crustal evolution, geochemical cycles, determination of temperature-time-pressure histories of rocks from radiogenic isotope systems, geothermometers and geobarometers. Geochemical studies of hydrothermal systems, metasomatism, and diagenesis.
Note: Expected to be given in 2000–01. Applied Mathematics 105a,b are recommended. Given in alternate years.
Prerequisite: EPS 140, Mathematics 21a,b.
Earth and Planetary Sciences 241. Isotope and Trace Element Geochemistry
Catalog Number: 1680
Stein B. Jacobsen
Half course (spring term). Hours to be arranged.
Cosmic abundances, meteorites, bulk composition of the Earth’s crust and mantle, geochemical cycles, residence times, element partition rules, mixing processes, stable isotopes, radiogenic isotopes, critical evaluation of experimental data. Application of mass spectrometry for the determination of isotope and trace element variations.
Note: Expected to be omitted in 2000–01. Given in alternate years.
Prerequisite: Mathematics 21a,b, and EPS 140.
[Earth and Planetary Sciences 242. Biogeochemistry of Light Stable Isotopes]
Catalog Number: 8808 Enrollment: Limited to 10.
Daniel P. Schrag and Nikolaas J. van der Merwe
Half course (spring term). W., 2–4. EXAM GROUP: 7, 8
Introduction to the theory and methodology of stable isotope biogeochemistry. Topics include isotope ratio mass spectrometry, biological fractionation of carbon and nitrogen isotopes, distribution of isotopes in terrestrial and marine ecosystems, applications to climate reconstruction, and multiple stable isotope techniques. Laboratory sessions provide an introduction to analytical methods and include an independent research project.
Note: Expected to be given in 2000–01. Given in alternate years.
[Earth and Planetary Sciences 247. Graduate Seminar: Crustal Growth Processes]
Catalog Number: 1222
Roberta L. Rudnick
Half course (spring term). Hours to be arranged.
Examines the growth and composition of the Earth’s continental crust. Specific topics to be covered include: the age of the crust, crustal growth curves and how they are constrained, geophysical models for the structure of the crust, crustal growth (and destruction) processes (e.g., island arc, oceanic plateau accretion, hot spots, crustal delamination, crustal recycling), and crustal composition and how it is determined. The structure of the course will consist of several introductory lectures, reading assignments and discussions arising from these.
Note: Expected to be given in 2000–01. Given in alternative years.
Earth and Planetary Sciences 260. Topics in Geophysics: The Core-Mantle Boundary
Catalog Number: 2908
Jeremy Bloxham, Richard J. O’Connell, and Jeroen Tromp
Half course (spring term). Hours to be arranged.
The course will address the physics and chemistry of the core-mantle boundary region. Topics will include the cooling of the core by the mantle and the thermal and chemical evolution of the core: core-mantle interactions, including the exchange of angular momentum between the core and the nature of D", including constraints on topography on the core-mantle boundary, anisotropy, and low velocity zones.
Note: This course will be given simultaneously with a research seminar in the Departmentof Earth, Atmospheric and Planetary Sciences at MIT and will involve participants from both institutions.
[Earth and Planetary Sciences 261. Theoretical Seismology: Free Oscillations and Surface Waves]
Catalog Number: 1714
Jeroen Tromp
Half course (spring term). Hours to be arranged.
Theoretical description of the long-period oscillations of the Earth: generalized spherical harmonics, free oscillations of a spherical Earth, moment tensor representation of sources, dispersion, attenuation, mode splitting due to rotation and asphericity, surface waves.
Note: Expected to be given in 2000–01.
Prerequisite: Applied Math 105a,b or EPS 166.
Earth and Planetary Sciences 262. Theoretical Seismology: Body Waves
Catalog Number: 3804
Half course (spring term). Hours to be arranged.
Mathematical topics in seismology: wave propagation in layered media, seismic sources, asymptotic ray theory, WKBJ theory, caustics, Maslov theory, body wave scattering, anisotropy, attenuation.
Note: Expected to be omitted in 2000–01.
Prerequisite: Applied Mathematics 105a,b, or EPS 166.
[Earth and Planetary Sciences 263. Earthquake Source Processes]
Catalog Number: 0542
Renata Dmowska and James R. Rice
Half course (spring term). Hours to be arranged.
Elastic radiation from faults in relation to source dynamics. Quantification of earthquakes; source parameters and scaling laws. Dynamic fracture theory. Friction laws; effective stress. State of stress in Earth’s crust. Strength and rheology of faults. Earthquake instability and rupture propagnation models. Spatio-temporal complexity of seismic response. Seismotectonics. Stressing and sesismicity in the earthquake cycle. Seismicity rate changes and hazard modification due to nearby earthquakes.
Note: Expected to be given in 2000–01.
Prerequisite: EPS 166 or equivalent and further advanced study at the 200 level in seismology or solid mechanics.
Earth and Planetary Sciences 264r. Topics in Planetary Magnetism
Catalog Number: 1429
Jeremy Bloxham
Half course (fall term). Hours to be arranged.
Theoretical and observational aspects of planetary magnetism, focused on Earth’s magnetic field. Topics: observations of Earth’s and other planets’ magnetic fields and field mapping at core boundary; determination of core radius and fluid flow within core; core structure and dynamics; core energetics; rotation and convection; core magnetohydrodynamics and magnetic field generation; kinematic and dynamic dynamo theory.
Note: Expected to be omitted in 2000–01.
Prerequisite: Applied Mathematics 105a,b, Physics 153 or equivalent, or permission of instructor.
Earth and Planetary Sciences 265r. Topics in Geodynamics
Catalog Number: 0816
Richard J. O’Connell
Half course (spring term). Hours to be arranged. EXAM GROUP: 16
Topics in the dynamics of processes in the Earth’s interior and the physical properties of the Earth’s interior, including: thermal convection and flow in the mantle, heat transport, rheology of the mantle, plate motions, plate deformation, physical properties of rocks and minerals.
Earth and Planetary Sciences 266r. Topics in Seismology: Earth Structure
Catalog Number: 2895
Adam M. Dziewonski
Half course (spring term). W., 2:30–5. EXAM GROUP: 7, 8, 9
Topics in seismology related to investigation of the elastic and anelastic structure of the deep interior of the Earth using normal modes, surface waves, and body waves. Theory, observation, and interpretation. Emphasis on 3-D seismic tomography. Topics vary from year to year.
Note: Expected to be omitted in 2000–01.
Prerequisite: EPS 166, Applied Mathematics 105a,b, or equivalent.
[Earth and Planetary Sciences 268r. Topics in Seismology: Earthquakes]
Catalog Number: 3021
Göran Ekström
Half course (spring term). Hours to be arranged.
Topics in seismology related to the earthquake source process. Focuses on observational and computational methods for determining earthquake parameters from seismic data. Kinematic and dynamic models of the earthquake source and their parameterization; modeling of seismic waveforms; inverse methods for parameter estimation. Topics vary from year to year.
Note: Expected to be given in 2000–01.
Prerequisite: EPS 166, or equivalent.
[Earth and Planetary Sciences 270. Crustal Deformation]
Catalog Number: 8230
John H. Shaw
Half course (fall term). Hours to be arranged.
Interpretation of complex geological structures using seismic reflection profiles, surface geology, remote-sensing imagery, and well logs. Students will construct balanced cross sections and kinematic models, restore sections, and use remote-sensing images to aid geologic mapping. Constraints on active structures and earthquake hazards will also be explored. Independent research project.
Note: Expected to be given in 2000–01. Given in alternate years.
Earth and Planetary Sciences 271r (formerly Earth and Planetary Sciences 271). Supercontinents
Catalog Number: 2515
Paul F. Hoffman
Half course (spring term). Hours to be arranged.
Geodynamics of the assembly and fragmentation of supercontinents through geologic time. The relationships of supercontinents to mantle convection and plumes, geomagnetic reversal frequency, and true polar wander. Supercontinents and their effects on ocean circulation, eustasy, paleoclimates, and biological evolution. Comparrative tectonics of Archean, Proterozoic,and Phanerozoic supercontinents.
Prerequisite: Two of EPS 5, EPS 7, EPS 8, or permission of the instructor.
[Earth and Planetary Sciences 281. Sequence Stratigraphy]
Catalog Number: 2474
Paul F. Hoffman and John H. Shaw
Half course (spring term). Hours to be arranged.
The principles and practice of sequence stratigraphy for advanced applications in engineering, hydrology, sedimentology, paleoecology, paleoclimatology, and natural resources. Factors governing changes in sea level, tectonic subsidence and sediment supply. Paleoenvironmental dynamics and resultant stratal geometries of terrigenous, carbonate and mixed depositional systems in various tectonic settings. Recognition and interpretation of sequence boundaries in seismic and outcrop sections. Heirarchies and predictive stacking patterns of unconformity-bounded sequences and sequence sets. Sequence stratigraphy as a conceptual basis for predicting patterns of diagenesis and porosity development. Forward modeling of sedimentary basins.
Note: Expected to be given in 2000–01.
Prerequisite: Previous course in sedimentology or permission of instructor.
*Earth and Planetary Sciences 331. Atmospheric Chemistry
Catalog Number: 4038
Daniel J. Jacob 1781
*Earth and Planetary Sciences 332. Dynamic Meteorology
Catalog Number: 2802
Brian F. Farrell 7628
*Earth and Planetary Sciences 333. Atmospheric Chemistry: Research Seminar
Catalog Number: 1510
Daniel J. Jacob 1781 and Members of the Department
Half course (fall term; repeated spring term). Spring: M., at 4.
Note: Meets M., at 4:00 p.m.
*Earth and Planetary Sciences 334. Atmospheric Physics and Chemistry
Catalog Number: 4886
Michael B. McElroy 2462
*Earth and Planetary Sciences 335. Physical and Dynamical Oceanography
Catalog Number: 3095
Allan R. Robinson 2133
*Earth and Planetary Sciences 336. Chemistry of Natural Waters
Catalog Number: 4688
James N. Butler 3453 (on leave fall term)
*Earth and Planetary Sciences 337. Biological Oceanography
Catalog Number: 5704
James J. McCarthy 4343
*Earth and Planetary Sciences 338. Atmospheric Chemistry
Catalog Number: 7596
Steven C. Wofsy 4396
*Earth and Planetary Sciences 340. Topics in Isotope Geochemistry: Research Seminar
Catalog Number: 2881
Stein B. Jacobsen 7212
*Earth and Planetary Sciences 341. Isotope Geochemistry
Catalog Number: 7103
Stein B. Jacobsen 7212
*Earth and Planetary Sciences 344. Topics in Stable Isotope Geochemistry and Geochemical Oceanography
Catalog Number: 6291
Daniel P. Schrag 3054
*Earth and Planetary Sciences 345. Geochemistry
Catalog Number: 7979
Heinrich D. Holland 3877
*Earth and Planetary Sciences 346. Geochemistry
Catalog Number: 2928
Roberta L. Rudnick 1637
*Earth and Planetary Sciences 361. Seismology
Catalog Number: 0355
Jeroen Tromp 3233
*Earth and Planetary Sciences 362. Dynamo Theory: Research Seminar
Catalog Number: 1840
Jeremy Bloxham 2047
*Earth and Planetary Sciences 363. Tectonophysics, Earthquake Source Physics
Catalog Number: 8664
James R. Rice 7270 (on leave fall term)
*Earth and Planetary Sciences 364. Geophysics
Catalog Number: 1438
Jeremy Bloxham 2047
*Earth and Planetary Sciences 365. Geophysics
Catalog Number: 5632
Richard J. O’Connell 3642
*Earth and Planetary Sciences 367. Seismology
Catalog Number: 4447
Adam M. Dziewonski 3641
*Earth and Planetary Sciences 368. Seismology
Catalog Number: 4932
Göran Ekström 2682
*Earth and Planetary Sciences 370. Structural Analysis
Catalog Number: 9046
John H. Shaw 3699
*Earth and Planetary Sciences 380. Precambrian Geology
Catalog Number: 1161
Paul F. Hoffman 1507
*Earth and Planetary Sciences 383. Paleobiology
Catalog Number: 7946
Stephen J. Gould 1707
Earth and Planetary Sciences 385. Analytical Paleontology
Catalog Number: 8129
Charles R. Marshall 2823 (2823)
*Earth and Planetary Sciences 387. Paleobotany
Catalog Number: 6983
Andrew H. Knoll 7425