Earth Materials

Catalog description

Introduction to the classification, composition, and properties of the materials that compose the Earth, how these materials are studied, and how they are used to interpret Earth history and processes. Course emphasizes common rock-forming minerals in the context of igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks. Lab work includes the systematic study of rocks and minerals in hand sample and in thin section using petrographic microscopy. Two hours of lecture and two hours of laboratory per week. Additional field trips outside of scheduled class time may be required.