3.00 Credits
Fulfills Physical Science General Education requirement. Focuses on the physical dynamics of the natural environment, delineating its geosphere, hydrosphere, atmosphere, and biosphere components, and their global patterns of interaction. Highlights the processes of science that underpin this systemic view of the world. Emphasizes issues of resource availability, along with their political and social ramifications. Particular emphasis is placed on the challenges natural hazards present to civilization, worldwide. The extraordinary geology of the region surrounding Utah Tech is featured in many textbook and lecture examples. One field trip required. GEO 1015 OR GEO 2000R lab course recommended. Inclusive Access Course Material (electronic book) fees may apply, see Fees tab under each course section for details. **COURSE LEARNING OUTCOMES (CLOs) At the successful conclusion of this course, students will be able to: 1. Explain how the scientific method works and outline how it is employed. 2. Explain the formation of the Solar System Earth, and Earth systems, how earth systems have changed through time, and how they are predicted to change in the future as consequences of both natural and man-made processes. 3. Explain and model the fundamentals of how plate tectonics works, including the formation of geologic structures, the mechanics of earthquakes, and tectonics-related geologic hazards. 4. Identify various Earth Materials, explain how they form and are classified, assess their usefulness for humans as natural resources, and explain their involvement in geologic hazards. 5. Explain how surface processes work, generate and transport sediment, shape the Earth's surface, and affect the distribution of geologic hazards. 6. Explain how stratigraphic and radiometric dating work, are used to determine the age of a rock, and bracket events in Earth history. FA, SP, SU