Geological and Atmospheric Sciences
Undergraduate Study
The department offers courses in Geology and Meteorology. Majors can be earned in earth science (B.A., B.S.), geology (B.S.), and meteorology (B.S.). Candidates for all degrees must satisfy the requirements established by the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences (see Liberal Arts and Sciences, Curriculum). In addition, the department has requirements for each major.
The bachelor of science in Geology prepares the student for a professional career and/or graduate study in the geological sciences. Students selecting geology as a major will elect an option in traditional geology or environmental geology/hydrogeology. The traditional option prepares a student for employment in state and U.S. geological surveys, mineral and petroleum exploration, and graduate study in most aspects of geology. Required courses in this option include:
| GEOL 100 | The Earth | 3 |
| GEOL 100L | The Earth: Laboratory | 1 |
| GEOL 102 | History of the Earth | 3 |
| GEOL 102L | History of the Earth: Laboratory | 1 |
| GEOL 302 | Summer Field Studies | 6 |
| GEOL 315 | Mineralogy and Earth Materials | 3 |
| GEOL 315L | Laboratory in Mineralogy and Earth Materials | 1 |
| GEOL 316 | Optical Mineralogy | 2 |
| GEOL 356 | Structural Geology | 5 |
| GEOL 365 | Igneous and Metamorphic Petrology | 3 |
| GEOL 368 | Stratigraphy and Sedimentation | 4 |
| GEOL 479 | Surficial Processes | 3 |
| And 9 credits of electives | 9 | |
The environmental geology/hydrogeology option prepares a student for employment in environmental consulting, state and U.S. geological surveys, regulatory agencies, and graduate study in the environmental aspects of geology. Required courses in this option include:
| GEOL 100 | The Earth | 3 |
| GEOL 100L | The Earth: Laboratory | 1 |
| GEOL 102 | History of the Earth | 3 |
| GEOL 102L | History of the Earth: Laboratory | 1 |
| GEOL 302 | Summer Field Studies | 6 |
| GEOL 315 | Mineralogy and Earth Materials | 3 |
| GEOL 315L | Laboratory in Mineralogy and Earth Materials | 1 |
| GEOL 316 | Optical Mineralogy | 2 |
| GEOL 356 | Structural Geology | 5 |
| GEOL 368 | Stratigraphy and Sedimentation | 4 |
| GEOL 411 | Hydrogeology | 4 |
| One of the following | 3 | |
| Environmental Geochemistry | ||
| Stable Isotopes in the Environment | ||
| Contaminant Hydrogeology | ||
| GEOL 479 | Surficial Processes | 3 |
| And at least 6 credits of Geology electives | 6 | |
Required supporting courses include:
| CHEM 177 | General Chemistry I | 4 |
| CHEM 177L | Laboratory in General Chemistry I | 1 |
| CHEM 178 | General Chemistry II | 3 |
| CHEM 178L | Laboratory in College Chemistry II | 1 |
| PHYS 111 | General Physics | 4 |
| PHYS 112 | General Physics | 4 |
| One of the following | 4 | |
| Calculus I | ||
| Calculus and Mathematical Modeling for the Life Sciences I | ||
| One of the following | 4 | |
| Calculus II | ||
| Calculus and Mathematical Modeling for the Life Sciences II | ||
And at least 6 additional credits from an approved departmental list of courses in the science, engineering, or mathematical disciplines outside of geology. No more than 9 credits in 490 may be counted toward a degree in Geology.
Minor - Geology
A minor in Geology may be earned by taking 15 credits of geology coursework, including:
| GEOL 100 & 100L | The Earth and The Earth: Laboratory | 4 |
| or GEOL 201 | Geology for Engineers and Environmental Scientists | |
| GEOL 102 | History of the Earth | 3 |
| GEOL 102L | History of the Earth: Laboratory | 1 |
The remainder should be at the 300 level or above.
Graduates work to understand natural processes on Earth and other planets. They are able to apply their knowledge of forces and factors that shape the Earth to reconstruct the past and anticipate the future. Graduates provide essential information for solving problems for resource management, environmental protection, and public health, safety, and welfare. They work as consultants on engineering and environmental problems, explorers for new minerals and hydrocarbon resources, researchers, teachers, writers, editors, and museum curators. Graduates are able to integrate field and laboratory data and to prepare reports. They are able to make presentations that include maps and diagrams that illustrate the results of their studies.
The study of Meteorology involves the description of the earth’s atmosphere and the processes responsible for its behavior. Students majoring in Meteorology earn the bachelor of science. The major satisfies guidelines specified by the American Meteorological Society and meets education requirements for employment with the National Weather Service and the World Meteorlogical Organization. Successful preparation for professional or graduate work in Meteorology requires that the student develop and integrate a diverse range of skills and knowledge bases. These include weather observing, the physics and dynamics of the global atmosphere, application of new weather technologies, advanced mathematical tools, computer programming and modeling, and effective oral and written communication. The faculty view the senior thesis (MTEOR 499 Senior Research), in particular, as a capstone experience in which students demonstrate they have achieved this integration. Also, contemporary meteorology is an earth-system science with ties to a variety of human experiences. The electives and general education requirements of the college are further experiences that the meteorology student must integrate with their core meteorology knowledge in order to function effectively in a globally-oriented profession. The program requires the following courses:
| MTEOR 111 | Synoptic Applications | 1 |
| MTEOR 201 | Introductory Seminar | R |
| MTEOR 206 | Introduction to Weather and Climate | 3 |
| MTEOR 227 | Computational Meteorology I | 3 |
| MTEOR 301 | General Meteorology | 4 |
| MTEOR 311 | Introduction to Synoptic Meteorology | 2 |
| MTEOR 341 | Atmospheric Physics I | 3 |
| MTEOR 342 | Atmospheric Physics II | 3 |
| MTEOR 411 | Synoptic Meteorology | 3 |
| MTEOR 417 | Mesoscale Forecasting Laboratory | 3 |
| MTEOR 432 | Instrumentation and Measurements | 3 |
| MTEOR 443 | Dynamic Meteorology I | 3 |
| MTEOR 454 | Dynamic Meteorology II | 3 |
| MTEOR 499 | Senior Research | 2 |
An additional 9 credits must be chosen from:
| MTEOR 402 | Watershed Hydrology | 4 |
| MTEOR 404 | Global Change | 3 |
| MTEOR 405 | Environmental Biophysics | 3 |
| MTEOR 406 | World Climates | 3 |
| MTEOR 407 | Mesoscale Meteorology | 3 |
| MTEOR 452 | Climate Modeling | 3 |
| MTEOR 490 | Independent Study | 1-3 |
| GEOL 415 | Paleoclimatology | 3 |
| or C E 372 | Engineering Hydrology and Hydraulics | |
Supporting work is required in areas at least equivalent to:
| CHEM 163 | College Chemistry | 4 |
| CHEM 163L | Laboratory in College Chemistry | 1 |
| COM S 207 | Fundamentals of Computer Programming | 3 |
| PHYS 221 | Introduction to Classical Physics I | 5 |
| PHYS 222 | Introduction to Classical Physics II | 5 |
| MATH 165 | Calculus I | 4 |
| MATH 166 | Calculus II | 4 |
| MATH 265 | Calculus III | 4 |
| MATH 266 | Elementary Differential Equations | 3 |
| STAT 105 | Introduction to Statistics for Engineers | 3 |
| SP CM 212 | Fundamentals of Public Speaking | 3 |
A grade of C or better (not C-) is required in each of the following courses to meet minimum graduation requirements for a bachelor of science degree in Meteorology:
| MTEOR 206 | Introduction to Weather and Climate | 3 |
| MTEOR 301 | General Meteorology | 4 |
| MTEOR 311 | Introduction to Synoptic Meteorology | 2 |
| MTEOR 341 | Atmospheric Physics I | 3 |
| MTEOR 342 | Atmospheric Physics II | 3 |
| MTEOR 443 | Dynamic Meteorology I | 3 |
Several co-op programs are available for upper division undergraduates. Although a range of opportunities exists for men and women who terminate their studies with a bachelor of science, students who meet the necessary academic standards are encouraged to continue their studies in a graduate program. For these students, additional coursework is recommended in a mathematical or physical science. Other students can choose a wide range of supporting courses that will contribute to their particular area of interest in meteorology.
Minor - Meteorology
The department offers a minor in Meteorology which may be earned by completing 15 credits including MTEOR 111 Synoptic Applications (only 1 credit may count toward the minor), MTEOR 206 Introduction to Weather and Climate and MTEOR 301 General Meteorology. Further information concerning programs of study, including sample degree programs, is available from the department.
The Earth Science major is a broad program that typically emphasizes an interdisciplinary field. Programs leading to the bachelor of science may be individually designed but will include required courses in Geology and Meteorology, and required supporting work in chemistry, physics, and mathematics. Specific programs have been designed for students interested in a geology, meteorology, or an environmental earth science emphasis. Programs leading to the bachelor of arts for earth science teaching are available. The latter program must satisfy the requirements of the Teacher Education Program (see Index, Teacher Education).
Communication Proficiency requirement: The department requires a grade of C or better in:
| ENGL 150 | Critical Thinking and Communication | 3 |
| ENGL 250 | Written, Oral, Visual, and Electronic Composition | 3 |
| or ENGL 250H | Written, Oral, Visual, and Electronic Composition, Honors | |
| ENGL 314 | Technical Communication | 3 |
| ENGL 302 | Business Communication | 3 |
| JL MC 347 | Science Communication | 3 |
Graduate Study
The department offers programs leading to the master of science and doctor of philosophy with majors in Earth Science, Geology, and Meteorology. Program options are available for the M.S. and Ph.D. degrees in earth science leading to careers in teaching. The department also cooperates in the interdepartmental major in Water Resources (see Index). Students desiring a major in the above fields normally will have a strong undergraduate background in the physical and mathematical sciences. Individuals desiring to enter a graduate program are evaluated by considering their undergraduate background and performance and their expressed goals.
Programs of study are designed on an individual basis in accordance with requirements of the Graduate College and established requirements for each departmental major. Additional coursework is normally taken in aerospace engineering, Agronomy (soil science), chemistry, civil and construction engineering, computer engineering, computer science, engineering mechanics, materials engineering, mathematics, mechanical engineering, microbiology, physics, or Statistics. Departmental requirements provide a strong, broad background in the major and allow considerable flexibility in the program of each individual.
A dissertation is required of all Ph.D. candidates.
M.S. students in Geology are required to complete a thesis. The M.S. in Earth Science is available to students electing the non-thesis (Creative Component) option in Geology or Meteorology. A non-thesis option is also offered for the M.S. degree in Meteorology.
Graduates in Geology specialize in a subdiscipline, but they comprehend and can communicate the basic principles of geology and supporting sciences. They possess the capacity for critical and independent thinking. They are able to write a fundable research proposal, evaluate current relevant literature, carry out the proposed research, and communicate the results of their research to peers at national meetings and to the general public. They work as consultants on engineering and environmental problems, explorers for new minerals and hydrocarbon resources, researchers, teachers, writers, editors, and museum curators.
All candidates for an advanced degree in Meteorology are expected to complete:
| MTEOR 542 | Physical Meteorology | 3 |
| MTEOR 543 | Advanced Dynamic Meteorology I | 3 |
| MTEOR 552 | Climate Modeling | 3 |
In addition, students without prior synoptic course-work must complete MTEOR 511 Synoptic Meteorology; other students must complete:
| MTEOR 507 | Mesoscale Meteorology | 3 |
| AGRON 507 | Mesoscale Meteorology | 3 |
| MTEOR 504 | Global Change | 3 |
| or AGRON 504 | Global Change | |
| MTEOR 605 | Boundary-Layer Meteorology | 3 |
| or AGRON 505 | Environmental Biophysics | |
Graduates in Meteorology have a good comprehension of basic principles, a capacity for critical and independent thought and an ability to communicate effectively with scientific colleagues. They have an appropriate breadth in their understanding of meteorology with a suitable specialization. Graduates are able to undertake thorough research and explain the results in a scientifically reasonable fashion.
Geology (Geol)
Courses primarily for undergraduate students
GEOL 100. The Earth.
(3-0) Cr. 3.
F.S.SS.
How does the earth work, what is it made of, and how does it change through time? Plate tectonics, Earth materials, landforms, structures, climate, and natural resources. Emphasis on the observations and hypotheses used to interpret earth system processes. Students may also enroll in GEOL 100L.
GEOL 100L. The Earth: Laboratory.
(0-2) Cr. 1.
F.S.
Prereq: Credit or enrollment in 100
Characterization of rocks and minerals; interpretation of structures and landforms.
GEOL 101. Environmental Geology: Earth in Crisis.
(Cross-listed with ENV S). (3-0) Cr. 3.
F.S.
An introduction to geologic processes and the consequences of human activity from local to global scales. Discussion of human population growth, resource depletion, pollution and waste disposal, global warming and ozone depletion, desertification, and geologic hazards such as earthquakes, landslides, flooding, and volcanism.
GEOL 102. History of the Earth.
(3-0) Cr. 3.
S.
Prereq: 100 or 201
The Earth's physical and biological evolution; concepts of global tectonics. Methods used to decipher earth history. Students majoring in geology must also enroll in GEOL 102L.
GEOL 102L. History of the Earth: Laboratory.
(0-2) Cr. 1.
S.
Prereq: Credit or enrollment in 102
Introduction to the use of sedimentary rocks and fossils in reconstructing the Earth's history.
GEOL 105. Gems and Gemstones.
(2-0) Cr. 1.
F.S.
Offered in second half of the semester. Introduction to gems and gemstones, physical and optical properties of gems and gemstones, explanation of where gems come from and how they are found, how to distinguish between synthetic and naturally occurring gems, how the value of gems are determined, and the history of famous gems.
GEOL 108. Introduction to Oceanography.
(Cross-listed with ENV S). (3-0) Cr. 3.
F.
Introduction to study of the oceans. Ocean exploration. Waves and currents. Shape, structure, and origin of the ocean basins. Sedimentary record of oceanic life. Composition of seawater and its significance for life. Ocean circulation and its influence on climate. Life of the oceans, including coral reefs. Use and misuse of ocean resources. Anthropogenic impacts on the oceanic environment.
GEOL 109. Exploring Iowa Geology.
(1-0) Cr. 1.
Repeatable, maximum of 2 times. F.
Introduction to Iowa geology through classroom lectures and up to four Saturday field trips to selected Iowa geological attractions. Students will learn basic geologic concepts such as geologic time, erosion and sedimentation, stratigraphy, glacial geology, and karst topography using Iowa examples.
GEOL 160. Water Resources of the World.
(Cross-listed with MTEOR, ENV S, AGRON). (3-0) Cr. 3.
S.
Study of the occurrence, history, development, and management of world water resources. Basic hydrologic principles including climate, surface water, groundwater, and water quality. Historical and current perspectives on water policy, use, and the role of water in society and the environment.
GEOL 201. Geology for Engineers and Environmental Scientists.
(2-2) Cr. 3.
F.
Introduction to Earth materials and processes with emphasis on engineering and environmental applications.
GEOL 290. Independent Study.
Cr. 2-4.
Repeatable.
Prereq: Permission of instructor
GEOL 298. Cooperative Education.
Cr. R.
F.S.SS.
Prereq: 100 or 201, 100L, 102, 102L, and permission of the department cooperative education coordinator; sophomore classification
Required of all cooperative education students. Students must register for this course prior to commencing the work period.
GEOL 302. Summer Field Studies.
Cr. 6.
SS.
Prereq: 102, 356, 368
Geologic mapping; structural, stratigraphic, sedimentologic, metamorphic, geomorphic, and environmental analyses. Study areas in the Bighorn Basin and Wind River Range and excursions to Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks. A 6-week summer field course required of all geology majors.
Nonmajor graduate credit.
GEOL 306. Geology Field Trip.
Cr. 1-2.
Repeatable. F.S.
Prereq: 100 or 201, permission of instructor
Geology of selected regions studied by correlated readings followed by a field trip to points of geologic interest. Ten-day field trip required.
GEOL 315. Mineralogy and Earth Materials.
(3-0) Cr. 3.
F.
Prereq: 100 or 201, CHEM 177
Introduction to mineral classification, elementary crystal chemistry, crystal growth and morphology, mineral stability, and mineral associations.
Nonmajor graduate credit.
GEOL 315L. Laboratory in Mineralogy and Earth Materials.
(0-3) Cr. 1.
F.
Prereq: 100 or 201
Mineral identification methods, especially hand-specimen identification.
Nonmajor graduate credit.
GEOL 316. Optical Mineralogy.
(1-2) Cr. 2.
F.
Prereq: 100 or 201, CHEM 177, credit or enrollment in 315
Laboratory problems in mineral-identification methods, especially optical microscopy and x-ray diffraction.
Nonmajor graduate credit.
GEOL 324. Energy and the Environment.
(Cross-listed with ENV S, MTEOR). (3-0) Cr. 3.
S.
Renewable and non-renewable energy resources. Origin, occurrence, and extraction of fossil fuels. Nuclear, wind, and solar energy. Energy efficiency. Environmental effects of energy production and use, including air pollution, acid precipitation, groundwater contamination, nuclear waste disposal, and global climate change.
Geol 324 does not count toward credits required in the Geology major.
GEOL 356. Structural Geology.
(3-6) Cr. 5.
S.
Prereq: 100 or 201; PHYS 111, MATH 165 or 181
Principles of stress and strain. Brittle and ductile behavior of rocks. Description and classification of joints, faults, folds, fractures, foliation, and lineation. Plate tectonics and regional geology. Laboratory includes application of geometrical techniques to solve structural problems; emphasizes map interpretation and use of stereonet and computer methods.
Nonmajor graduate credit.
GEOL 365. Igneous and Metamorphic Petrology.
(2-3) Cr. 3.
S.
Prereq: 315, 315L, 316
Nature and origin of igneous and metamorphic rocks. Emphasis on important rock-forming environments and processes and their influence on rock characteristics. Laboratory includes thin section study of rock textures and mineralogy and the interpretation of these features. Field trips.
Nonmajor graduate credit.
GEOL 368. Stratigraphy and Sedimentation.
(3-2) Cr. 4.
F.
Prereq: 315, 315L, 316
Origin of sedimentary rocks and the characteristics of major depositional systems, geologic time, stratigraphic nomenclature, methods of correlation, facies and facies analysis, sequence stratigraphy, sedimentary tectonics and basin analysis. Required field and laboratory-based problem with a comprehensive written report.
Nonmajor graduate credit.
GEOL 398. Cooperative Education.
Cr. R.
F.S.SS.
Prereq: 100 or 201, 100L, 102, 102L, and permission of the department cooperative education coordinator; junior classification
Required of all cooperative education students. Students must register for this course prior to commencing each work period.
GEOL 402. Watershed Hydrology.
(Dual-listed with 502). (Cross-listed with AGRON, ENSCI, MTEOR, NREM). (3-3) Cr. 4.
F.
Prereq: Four courses in physical or biological sciences or engineering; junior standing
Examination of watersheds as systems, emphasizing the surface components of the hydrologic cycle. Combines qualitative understanding of hydrological processes and uncertainty with quantitative representation. Laboratory emphasizes field investigation and measurement of watershed processes.
Nonmajor graduate credit.
GEOL 409. Field Methods in Hydrogeology.
(Dual-listed with 509). (Cross-listed with ENSCI). (0-4) Cr. 2.
Alt. SS., offered 2012.
Prereq: 402 or 411 or C E 473
Introduction to field methods used in groundwater investigations. In-field implementation of pumping tests, slug tests, monitoring well installation and drilling techniques, geochemical and water quality sampling, seepage meters, minipiezometers, stream gaging, electronic instrumentation for data collection, and geophysics. Field trips to investigate water resource, water quality, and remediation projects.
GEOL 411. Hydrogeology.
(Dual-listed with 511). (Cross-listed with ENSCI). (3-2) Cr. 4.
F.
Prereq: GEOL 100 or 201; MATH 165 or 181; PHYS 111 or 221
Physical principles of groundwater flow, nature and origin of aquifers and confining units, well hydraulics, groundwater modeling, and contaminant transport. Lab emphasizes applied field and laboratory methods for hydrogeological investigations.
Nonmajor graduate credit.
GEOL 414. Applied Groundwater Flow Modeling.
(Dual-listed with 514). (Cross-listed with ENSCI). (2-2) Cr. 3.
Alt. S., offered 2012.
Prereq: 411 or C E 473; MATH 165 or 181
Introduction to the principles of modeling groundwater flow systems. Finite-difference and analytic-element methods, spreadsheet models, boundary conditions, calibration, sensitivity analysis, parameter estimation, particle tracking, and post-audit analysis. Application of MODFLOW to regional flow-system analysis. Computer laboratory emphasizes assigned problems that illustrate topics discussed in the course.
Nonmajor graduate credit.
GEOL 415. Paleoclimatology.
(Dual-listed with 515). (Cross-listed with ENSCI). (3-0) Cr. 3.
Alt. S., offered 2013.
Prereq: Four courses in biological or physical science
Introduction to mechanisms that drive climate, including the interplay between oceanic and atmospheric circulation and fluctuation in Earth's orbital parameters. Examination and analysis of past climate records ranging from historical documentation to ecological and geochemical proxies (e.g. tree ring analysis; O and C isotopes of skeletal carbonates and soils). Dating methods used to constrain and correlate climatic periods; utility of computer models to reconstruct past climates and predict future climate change. Emphasis placed on paleoclimatology and paleoecology of the late Quaternary (last ~1 million years).
Nonmajor graduate credit.
GEOL 416. Hydrologic Modeling and Analysis.
(Dual-listed with 516). (Cross-listed with MTEOR, ENSCI). (2-3) Cr. 3.
Alt. S., offered 2013.
Prereq: Four courses in Earth science, meteorology, or engineering; junior standing
Study of the basic principles of hydrologic modeling, including rainfall-runoff analysis, lumped and distributed modeling, conceptual and physical models, parameter estimation and sensitivity analysis, input and validation data, uncertainty analysis, and the use of models in surface water hydrology. A range of common models are applied to study hydrologic topics such as flood forecasting and land use change impacts. Previous experience with Matlab or other programming language is needed.
Nonmajor graduate credit.
GEOL 419. Environmental Geochemistry.
(Dual-listed with 519). (Cross-listed with ENSCI). (2-2) Cr. 3.
F.
Prereq: 402 or 411 or equivalent
Geochemistry of natural waters and water-rock interactions. Acid-base equilibria, carbonate chemistry and buffer systems, mineral dissolution and precipitation, sorption, ion exchange, and redox reactions. Introduction to thermodynamics and kinetics. Laboratory emphasizes chemical analysis of waters and computer modeling.
Nonmajor graduate credit.
GEOL 420. Mineral Resources.
(Dual-listed with 520). (2-3) Cr. 3.
Alt. F., offered 2012.
Prereq: 365
Geology and geochemistry of non-metallic and metallic ore deposits. Major processes that concentrate metals in the Earth. Geochemical conditions of ore formation using stable-isotope and fluid-inclusion studies. Laboratory emphasizes the study of metallic ores.
GEOL 426. Stable Isotopes in the Environment.
(Dual-listed with 526). (Cross-listed with ENSCI). (3-0) Cr. 3.
Alt. F., offered 2011.
Prereq: Four courses in biological or physical science
Introduction to the theory, methods and applications of stable isotopes. Primary focus on the origin, natural abundance, and fractionation of carbon, hydrogen, oxygen, nitrogen isotopes. Applications of isotopic occurrence for elucidation of physical, chemical, biological, and environmental processes. Effects of plant physiology, photosynthesis, trophic structure, diffusion, evaporation, chemical precipitation, soil and atmospheric processes, and environmental factors on isotope abundance.
Nonmajor graduate credit.
GEOL 434. Contaminant Hydrogeology.
(Dual-listed with 534). (Cross-listed with ENSCI). (3-0) Cr. 3.
S.
Prereq: GEOL 411 or equivalent
Theory and practical considerations of fate and transport of solutes through porous geologic materials. Organic and inorganic contaminants in industrial and agricultural settings. Subsurface microbiology and biodegradation of aromatic and chlorinated hydrocarbons. Investigation of coupled processes (diffusion, advection, dispersion, sorption, and biodegradation) using computer models. Soil and groundwater monitoring and remediation strategies.
Nonmajor graduate credit.
GEOL 451. Applied and Environmental Geophysics.
(Dual-listed with 551). (Cross-listed with ENSCI). (2-2) Cr. 3.
S.
Prereq: 100 or 201, MATH 181 or equivalent experience or permission of instructor
Seismic, gravity, magnetic, resistivity, electromagnetic, and ground-penetrating radar techniques for shallow subsurface investigations and imaging. Data interpretation methods. Lab emphasizes computer interpretation packages. Field work with seismic - and resistivity-imaging systems and radar.
Nonmajor graduate credit.
GEOL 452. GIS for Geoscientists.
(Dual-listed with 552). (Cross-listed with AGRON, ENSCI). (2-2) Cr. 3.
F.
Prereq: 100, 201 or equivalent
Introduction to geographic information systems (GIS) with particular emphasis on geoscientific data. Uses ESRI's ArcGIS Desktop Software and extension modules. Emphasizes typical GIS operations and analyses in the geosciences to prepare students for advanced GIS courses.
Nonmajor graduate credit.
GEOL 457. Exploration Seismology.
(Dual-listed with 557). (2-2) Cr. 3.
Alt. F., offered 2012.
Prereq: 100 or 201, MATH 181 or equivalent experience or permission of instructor
Physics of elastic-wave propagation. Seismic surveys in environmental imaging, engineering, and petroleum exploration. Reflection and refraction techniques. Data collection, processing, and geological interpretation. Field work with state-of-the-art equipment.
Nonmajor graduate credit.
GEOL 474. Glacial and Quaternary Geology.
(Dual-listed with 574). (2-2) Cr. 3.
Alt. S., offered 2013.
Prereq: 100 or 201 or equivalent experience
The study of the depositional and erosional processes of glaciers using modern glacier analogs and landforms. Discussion of glaciology, glacier hydrology, Quaternary history and stratigraphy, paleoclimatology, and causes of glaciation. Laboratory emphasizes aerial photo and topographic map interpretation and the Quaternary stratigraphy of Iowa. Two required field trips.
Nonmajor graduate credit.
GEOL 479. Surficial Processes.
(Dual-listed with 579). (Cross-listed with ENSCI). (2-2) Cr. 3.
F.
Prereq: 100 or 201 or equivalent experience
Study of surficial processes in modern and ancient geological environments. Topics include weathering, sediment transport, and landform genesis with emphasis on fluvial, glacial, hillslope, eolian, and coastal processes. Applications to engineering and environmental problems. Laboratory emphasizes aerial photo and topographic map interpretation.
Nonmajor graduate credit.
GEOL 490. Independent Study.
Cr. 1-4.
Repeatable, maximum of 9 credits.
Prereq: 6 credits in geology and permission of instructor
No more than 9 credits of Geol 490 may be counted toward graduation.
GEOL 495. Undergraduate Seminar.
Cr. 1.
F.S.
Prereq: Junior or senior classification
Weekly seminar on topics of current research interest.
GEOL 498. Cooperative Education.
Cr. R.
F.S.SS.
Prereq: GEOL 100 or 201, 100L, 102, 102L, and permission of the department cooperative education coordinator; senior classification
Required of all cooperative education students. Students must register for this course prior to commencing each work period.
Courses primarily for graduate students, open to qualified undergraduate students
GEOL 502. Watershed Hydrology.
(Dual-listed with 402). (Cross-listed with ENSCI, MTEOR). (3-3) Cr. 4.
F.
Prereq: Four courses in physical or biological sciences or engineering; junior standing
Examination of watersheds as systems, emphasizing the surface components of the hydrologic cycle. Combines qualitative understanding of hydrological processes and uncertainty with quantitative representation. Laboratory emphasizes field investigation and measurement of watershed processes.
GEOL 506. Geology Field Trip.
Cr. 1-2.
Repeatable. F.S.
Prereq: Graduate classification
Geology of selected regions studied by correlated readings, followed by a field trip to points of geologic interest. Ten-day field trip.
GEOL 507. Midwestern Geology Field Trip.
Cr. 1.
Repeatable, maximum of 4 times. F.
Prereq: GEOL 365
On-site inspection of various ore deposits, mining operations, and terrains dominated by igneous or metamorphic rocks.
Offered on a satisfactory-fail basis only.
GEOL 509. Field Methods in Hydrogeology.
(Dual-listed with 409). (Cross-listed with ENSCI). (0-4) Cr. 2.
Alt. SS., offered 2012.
Prereq: 402 or 411 or C E 473
Introduction to field methods used in groundwater investigations. In-field implementation of pumping tests, slug tests, monitoring well installation and drilling techniques, geochemical and water quality sampling, seepage meters, minipiezometers, stream gaging, electronic instrumentation for data collection, and geophysics. Field trips to investigate water resource, water quality, and remediation projects.
GEOL 511. Hydrogeology.
(Dual-listed with 411). (Cross-listed with ENSCI). (3-2) Cr. 4.
F.
Prereq: GEOL 100 or 201; MATH 165 or 181; PHYS 111 or 221
Physical principles of groundwater flow, nature and origin of aquifers and confining units, well hydraulics, groundwater modeling, and contaminant transport. Lab emphasizes applied field and laboratory methods for hydrogeological investigations.
GEOL 514. Applied Groundwater Flow Modeling.
(Dual-listed with 414). (Cross-listed with ENSCI). (2-2) Cr. 3.
Alt. S., offered 2012.
Prereq: 411 or C E 473; MATH 165 or 181
Introduction to the principles of modeling groundwater flow systems. Finite-difference and analytic-element methods, spreadsheet models, boundary conditions, calibration, sensitivity analysis, parameter estimation, particle tracking, and post-audit analysis. Application of MODFLOW to regional flow-system analysis. Computer laboratory emphasizes assigned problems that illustrate topics discussed in the course.
GEOL 515. Paleoclimatology.
(Dual-listed with 415). (Cross-listed with ENSCI). (3-0) Cr. 3.
Alt. S., offered 2013.
Prereq: Four courses in biological or physical science
Introduction to mechanisms that drive climate, including the interplay between oceanic and atmospheric circulation and fluctuation in Earth's orbital parameters. Examination and analysis of past climate records ranging from historical documentation to ecological and geochemical proxies (e.g. tree ring analysis; O and C isotopes of skeletal carbonates and soils). Dating methods used to constrain and correlate climatic periods; utility of computer models to reconstruct past climates and predict future climate change. Emphasis placed on paleoclimatology and paleoecology of the late Quaternary (last ~ 1 million years).
GEOL 516. Hydrologic Modeling and Analysis.
(Dual-listed with 416). (Cross-listed with MTEOR, ENSCI). (2-3) Cr. 3.
Alt. S., offered 2013.
Prereq: Four courses in earth science, meteorology, or engineering; junior standing
Study of the basic principles of hydrologic modeling, including rainfall-runoff analysis, lumped and distributed modeling, conceptual and physical models, parameter estimation and sensitivity analysis, input and validation data, uncertainty analysis, and the use of models in surface water hydrology. A range of common models are applied to study hydrologic topics such as flood forecasting and land use change impacts. Previous experience with Matlab or other programming language is needed.
GEOL 519. Environmental Geochemistry.
(Dual-listed with 419). (Cross-listed with ENSCI). (2-2) Cr. 3.
F.
Prereq: 511 or equivalent
Geochemistry of natural waters and water-rock interactions. Acid-base equilibria, carbonate chemistry and buffer systems, mineral dissolution and precipitation, sorption, ion exchange, and redox reactions. Introduction to thermodynamics and kinetics. Laboratory emphasizes chemical analysis of waters and computer modeling.
GEOL 520. Mineral Resources.
(Dual-listed with 420). (2-3) Cr. 3.
Alt. F., offered 2012.
Prereq: 365
Geology and geochemistry of non-metallic and metallic ore deposits. Major processes that concentrate metals in the Earth. Geochemical conditions of ore formation using stable-isotope and fluid-inclusion studies. Laboratory emphasizes the study of metallic ores.
GEOL 526. Stable Isotopes in the Environment.
(Dual-listed with 426). (Cross-listed with ENSCI). (3-0) Cr. 3.
Alt. F., offered 2011.
Prereq: Four courses in biological or physical science
Introduction to the theory, methods and applications of stable isotopes. Primary focus on the origin, natural abundance, and fractionation of carbon, hydrogen, oxygen, nitrogen isotopes. Applications of isotopic occurrence for elucidation of physical, chemical, biological, and environmental processes. Effects of plant physiology, photosynthesis, trophic structure, diffusion, evaporation, chemical precipitation, soil and atmospheric processes, and environmental factors on isotope abundance.
GEOL 534. Contaminant Hydrogeology.
(Dual-listed with 434). (Cross-listed with ENSCI). (3-0) Cr. 3.
S.
Prereq: GEOL 511 or equivalent
Theory and practical considerations of fate and transport of solutes through porous geologic materials. Organic and inorganic contaminants in industrial and agricultural settings. Subsurface microbiology and biodegradation of aromatic and chlorinated hydrocarbons. Investigation of coupled processes (diffusion, advection, dispersion, sorption, and biodegradation) using computer models. Soil and groundwater monitoring and remediation strategies.
GEOL 551. Applied and Environmental Geophysics.
(Dual-listed with 451). (Cross-listed with ENSCI). (2-2) Cr. 3.
S.
Prereq: 100 or 201, MATH 181 or equivalent experience or permission of instructor
Seismic, gravity, magnetic, resistivity, electromagnetic, and ground-penetrating radar techniques for shallow subsurface investigations and imaging. Data interpretation methods. Lab emphasizes computer interpretation packages. Field work with seismic- and resistivity-imaging systems and radar.
GEOL 552. GIS for Geoscientists.
(Dual-listed with 452). (Cross-listed with AGRON, ENSCI). (2-2) Cr. 3.
F.
Prereq: GEOL 100, 201 or equivalent
Introduction to geographic information systems (GIS) with particular emphasis on geoscientific data. Uses ESRI's ArcGIS Desktop Software and extension modules. Emphasizes typical GIS operations and analyses in the geosciences to prepare students for advanced GIS courses.
GEOL 555. Environmental Soil Mineralogy.
(Cross-listed with AGRON). (3-0) Cr. 3.
Alt. S., offered 2012.
Prereq: Agron 473, CHEM 178. Recommend: Geol 311
Structure and behavior of clay minerals, humic substances and biochar in soil environments, with emphasis on reactions and environmental implications.
GEOL 555L. Soil Clay Mineralogy Laboratory.
(Cross-listed with AGRON). (0-3) Cr. 1.
Alt. S., offered 2012.
Prereq: Credit or enrollment in 555
Thompson. Application of X-ray diffraction, thermal analysis, infrared spectroscopy, and chemical analyses to identification and behavior of clay minerals in soils.
GEOL 557. Exploration Seismology.
(Dual-listed with 457). (2-2) Cr. 3.
Alt. F., offered 2012.
Prereq: 100 or 201, MATH 181 or equivalent experience or permission of instructor
Physics of elastic-wave propagation. Seismic surveys in environmental imaging, engineering, and petroleum exploration. Reflection and refraction techniques. Data collection, processing, and geological interpretation. Field work with state-of-the-art equipment.
GEOL 558. Introduction to the 3D Visualization of Scientific Data.
(Cross-listed with HCI, COM S). (2-2) Cr. 3.
Alt. S., offered 2013.
Prereq: Graduate-student standing in the mathematical or natural sciences
Introduction to visualizing scientific information with 3D computer graphics and their foundation in human perception. Overview of different visualization techniques and examples of 3D visualization projects from different disciplines (natural sciences, medicine, engineering). Class project in interactive 3D visualization using the OpenDX, VTK or a similar system.
GEOL 574. Glacial and Quaternary Geology.
(Dual-listed with 474). (2-2) Cr. 3.
Alt. S., offered 2013.
Prereq: 100 or 201
The study of the depositional and erosional processes of glaciers using modern glacier analogs and landforms. Discussion of glaciology, glacier hydrology, Quaternary history and stratigraphy, paleoclimatology, and causes of glaciation. Laboratory emphasizes aerial photo and topographic map interpretation and the Quaternary stratigraphy of Iowa. Two required field trips.
GEOL 579. Surficial Processes.
(Dual-listed with 479). (Cross-listed with ENSCI). (2-2) Cr. 3.
F.
Prereq: GEOL 100 or 201 or equivalent experience
Study of surficial processes in modern and ancient geological environments. Topics include weathering, sediment transport, and landform genesis with emphasis on fluvial, glacial, hillslope, eolian, and coastal processes. Applications to engineering and environmental problems. Laboratory emphasizes aerial photo and topographic map interpretation.
GEOL 590. Special Topics.
Cr. 1-3.
Repeatable.
Prereq: Permission of instructor
A. Surficial Processes
B. Stratigraphy
C. Sedimentation
D. Paleontology
E. Petrology
F. Structural Geology
G. Geochemistry
H. Hydrogeology
I. Earth Science
J. Mineral Resources
K. Geophysics
M. Tectonics
N. Paleoecology and Paleoclimatology
O. Isotope Geochemistry
P. Computational Methods and GIS
R. Surface Hydrology
S. Oceanography
GEOL 595. Graduate Seminar.
Cr. 1.
Repeatable. F.S.
Prereq: Senior or graduate classification
Weekly seminar on topics of current research interest. All students seeking a graduate degree in geology must enroll during each semester of residence. Students pursuing a non-thesis option for the M.S. in Earth Science must enroll for one semester.
Offered on a satisfactory-fail basis only.
A. Cr. 1. Presentation required.
B. Cr.
R. Attendance only.
GEOL 599. Creative Component.
Cr. arr.
Repeatable.
Courses for graduate students
GEOL 610. Advanced Seminar.
Cr. 1-3.
Repeatable. F.S.
Prereq: Graduate standing and permission of instructor
A. Earth Materials
B. Economic Geology
C. Environmental Geochemistry
D. Geophysics
E. Geotectonics
F. Hydrogeology
G. Surficial Processes
H. Sedimentation and Stratigraphy
I. Paleoecology and Paleoclimatology
J. Isotope Geochemistry
K. Computational Methods and GIS
GEOL 699. Research.
Cr. arr.
Repeatable.
A. Surficial Processes
B. Stratigraphy
C. Sedimentation
D. Paleontology
E. Petrology
F. Structural Geology
G. Geochemistry
H. Hydrogeology
I. Earth Science
J. Mineral Resources
K. Geophysics
M. Tectonics
N. Paleoecology and Paleoclimatology
O. Isotope Geochemistry
P. Computational Methods and GIS
R. Surface Hydrology
Meteorology (Mteor)
Courses primarily for undergraduate students
MTEOR 107. Severe and Hazardous Weather.
(2-0) Cr. 1.
F.
Understanding of atmospheric processes that play a role in creating severe and hazardous weather. Focus on thunderstorms, tornadoes, hurricanes, floods, blizzards, ice storms, and temperature extremes. Impacts on lives and property.
MTEOR 111. Synoptic Applications.
(1-0) Cr. 1.
Repeatable. F.
Prereq: Credit or enrollment in MATH 165
Current weather discussions and introduction to synoptic-scale interpretation of meteorology. Application and use of calculus in meteorology. Course restricted to majors. Others with permission of instructor.
MTEOR 160. Water Resources of the World.
(Cross-listed with GEOL, ENV S, AGRON). (3-0) Cr. 3.
S.
Study of the occurrence, history, development, and management of world water resources. Basic hydrologic principles including climate, surface water, groundwater, and water quality. Historical and current perspectives on water policy, use, and the role of water in society and the environment.
MTEOR 201. Introductory Seminar.
(1-0) Cr. R.
F.
An overview of the atmospheric sciences, the meteorology program at Iowa State, and the major research journals used in the discipline.
MTEOR 206. Introduction to Weather and Climate.
(Cross-listed with AGRON). (3-0) Cr. 3.
F.S.
Arritt, Cervato, Hornbuckle. Basic concepts in weather and climate, including atmospheric measurements, radiation, stability, precipitation, winds, fronts, forecasting, and severe weather. Applied topics include global warming, ozone depletion, world climates and weather safety.
MTEOR 227. Computational Meteorology I.
(3-1) Cr. 3.
F.
Prereq: Credit or concurrent enrollment in MTEOR 206, credit or concurrent enrollment in PHYS 221
An introduction to computer programming using FORTRAN with focus on meteorological applications. Emphasis on basics of good programming techniques and style through extensive practice in top-down design, writing, running, and debugging small programs. Topics include operations and functions, selective execution, repetitive execution, arrays, input/output, file processing, and subprograms. This course is designed for majors.
MTEOR 265. Scientific Balloon Engineering and Operations.
(Cross-listed with AER E). (0-2) Cr. 1.
F.
Engineering aspects of scientific balloon flights. Integration of science mission objectives with engineering requirements. Operations team certification. FAA and FCC regulations, communications, and command systems. Flight path prediction and control.
MTEOR 298. Cooperative Education.
Cr. R.
F.S.SS.
Prereq: Permission of the department cooperative education coordinator; sophomore classification
Required of all cooperative education students. Students must register for this course prior to commencing the work period.
MTEOR 301. General Meteorology.
(4-0) Cr. 4.
S.
Prereq: MATH 166, credit or enrollment in PHYS 222
Global distribution of temperature, wind, and atmospheric constituents; atmospheric thermodynamics, radiative transfer, global energy balance, storms and clouds, introductory dynamics.
Nonmajor graduate credit.
MTEOR 311. Introduction to Synoptic Meteorology.
(1-2) Cr. 2.
F.
Prereq: 301
Concepts of weather map plotting and analysis. Introduction to forecasting and to the use of real-time UNIDATA computer products.
Nonmajor graduate credit.
MTEOR 321. Meteorology Internship.
Cr. 1-2.
Repeatable, maximum of 3 credits. F.S.SS.
Prereq: 311; junior or senior standing; permission of co-op program coordinator; acceptance by sponsoring agency
Supervised practical experience in a professional meteorological agency. Experiences may include providing weather information for radio, TV, utilities, government agencies, construction, or agribusiness.
MTEOR 324. Energy and the Environment.
(Cross-listed with ENV S, GEOL). (3-0) Cr. 3.
S.
Renewable and non-renewable energy resources. Origin, occurrence, and extraction of fossil fuels. Nuclear, wind, and solar energy. Energy efficiency. Environmental effects of energy production and use, including air pollution, acid precipitation, groundwater contamination, nuclear waste disposal, and global climate change.
Mteor 324 does not count toward credits required in the meteorology major.
MTEOR 341. Atmospheric Physics I.
(3-0) Cr. 3.
F.
Prereq: PHYS 222, credit or enrollment in MATH 266
Basic laws of thermodynamics, thermodynamics of water vapor, mixtures of gases, stability, hydrostatics, cloud physics.
Nonmajor graduate credit.
MTEOR 342. Atmospheric Physics II.
(3-0) Cr. 3.
S.
Prereq: 341
Precipitation physics, radar, atmospheric radiation, atmospheric optics, atmospheric electricity.
Nonmajor graduate credit.
MTEOR 398. Cooperative Education.
Cr. R.
F.S.SS.
Prereq: Permission of the department cooperative education coordinator; junior classification
Required of all cooperative education students. Students must register for this course prior to commencing the work period.
MTEOR 402. Watershed Hydrology.
(Dual-listed with 502). (Cross-listed with AGRON, ENSCI, GEOL, NREM). (3-3) Cr. 4.
F.
Prereq: Four courses in physical or biological sciences or engineering; junior standing
Examination of watersheds as systems, emphasizing the surface components of the hydrologic cycle. Combines qualitative understanding of hydrological processes and uncertainty with quantitative representation. Laboratory emphasizes field investigation and measurement of watershed processes.
Nonmajor graduate credit.
MTEOR 404. Global Change.
(Dual-listed with 504). (Cross-listed with AGRON, ENSCI, ENV S). (3-0) Cr. 3.
S.
Prereq: Four courses in physical or biological sciences or engineering; junior standing
Recent changes in global biogeochemical cycles and climate; models of future changes in the climate system; impacts of global change on agriculture, water resources and human health; ethical issues of global environmental change.
Nonmajor graduate credit.
MTEOR 405. Environmental Biophysics.
(Dual-listed with 505). (Cross-listed with AGRON, ENSCI). (3-0) Cr. 3.
Alt. S., offered 2013.
Prereq: MATH 165 or 182 or equivalent and some computer programming experience (any language)
Hornbuckle. A description of the physical microenvironment in which organisms live. Emphasis on the movement of energy (heat and radiation) and mass (water and carbon) among organisms, the soil, and atmosphere. Applications to humans, other animals, plants, and plant communities.
Nonmajor graduate credit.
MTEOR 406. World Climates.
(Cross-listed with AGRON, ENSCI). (3-0) Cr. 3.
F.
Prereq: Agron/MTEOR 206
Arritt. Distribution and causes of different climates around the world. Effects of climate and climate variations on human activities including society, economy and agriculture. Current issues such as climate change and international efforts to assess and mitigate the consequences of a changing climate. Semester project and in-class presentation required.
Nonmajor graduate credit.
Meets International Perspectives Requirement.
MTEOR 407. Mesoscale Meteorology.
(Dual-listed with 507). (Cross-listed with AGRON). (3-0) Cr. 3.
Alt. S., offered 2012.
Prereq: MATH 166 and MTEOR 443
Gallus. Physical nature and practical consequences of mesoscale atmospheric phenomena. Mesoscale convective systems, fronts, terrain-forced circulations. Observation, analysis, and prediction of mesoscale atmospheric structure.
MTEOR 411. Synoptic Meteorology.
(Dual-listed with 511). (1-4) Cr. 3.
F.
Prereq: Credit or enrollment in 454
Current weather forecasting and discussion. Applications of atmospheric physics and dynamics in real-time weather situations. Use of UNIDATA computer products.
Nonmajor graduate credit.
MTEOR 416. Hydrologic Modeling and Analysis.
(Dual-listed with 516). (Cross-listed with GEOL, ENSCI). (2-3) Cr. 3.
Alt. S., offered 2013.
Prereq: Four courses in Earth science, meteorology, or engineering; junior standing
Study of the basic principles of hydrologic modeling, including rainfall-runoff analysis, lumped and distributed modeling, conceptual and physical models, parameter estimation and sensitivity analysis, input and validation data, uncertainty analysis, and the use of models in surface water hydrology. A range of common models are applied to study hydrologic topics such as flood forecasting and land use change impacts. Previous experience with Matlab or other programming language is needed.
Nonmajor graduate credit.
MTEOR 417. Mesoscale Forecasting Laboratory.
(1-5) Cr. 3.
S.
Prereq: Credit or enrollment in 411
Real-time computer analysis of current weather, with emphasis on small-scale features. Studies of severe weather, lake-effect snow, CSI, cold-air damming.
Nonmajor graduate credit.
MTEOR 432. Instrumentation and Measurements.
(3-0) Cr. 3.
S.
Prereq: Credit or enrollment in STAT 105, MATH 266, PHYS 222
Measurement of meteorological variables and instruments used, including surface, upper air, and remote sensors; measurement errors, signal processing, recording and archiving; quality assurance.
Nonmajor graduate credit.
MTEOR 443. Dynamic Meteorology I.
(3-0) Cr. 3.
S.
Prereq: 341
Conservation laws, governing equations, circulation and vorticity. Development of quasi-geostrophic theory.
Nonmajor graduate credit.
MTEOR 452. Climate Modeling.
(Dual-listed with 552). (3-0) Cr. 3.
F.
Prereq: MTEOR 301
Developing and working with climate models based on fundamental physical principles that govern the climate systems of the Earth and other planets. Emphasis on coupled, nonlinear-system interactions of physical processes such as circulation dynamics, radiative transfer, and cloud/precipitation physics, starting with fairly simple 0- and 1-dimensional analytical and numerical models based on energy, mass, and momentum conservation. Observational study of seasonally evolving weather patterns that form climates around the world.
Nonmajor graduate credit.
MTEOR 454. Dynamic Meteorology II.
(3-0) Cr. 3.
F.
Prereq: 443
Planetary boundary layer, linear perturbation theory, atmospheric wave motions, baroclinic and convective instability, mesoscale circulations.
Nonmajor graduate credit.
MTEOR 471. History of Modern Meteorology.
(Dual-listed with 571). (1-0) Cr. 1.
Alt. S., offered 2012.
Prereq: MTEOR 341, 342, 411, 443, 452
Development of meteorological theories and numerical weather prediction, discoveries of important meteorological phenomena, and impact of weather and climate on important historical events.
MTEOR 490. Independent Study.
Cr. 1-3.
Repeatable, maximum of 9 credits.
Prereq: 6 credits in meteorology, permission of instructor
No more than 9 credits in Mteor 490 may be counted toward graduation.
A. Synoptic Meteorology.
B. Dynamic Meteorology.
C. Physical Meteorology.
D. Instrumentation.
E. Hydrology.
MTEOR 498. Cooperative Education.
Cr. R.
F.S.SS.
Prereq: Permission of the department cooperative education coordinator; senior classification
Required of all cooperative education students. Students must register for this course prior to commencing each work period.
MTEOR 499. Senior Research.
(2-0) Cr. 2.
F.
Required of all senior meteorology majors. Research projects in collaboration with faculty. Written and oral presentations of results at the end of the semester.
Courses primarily for graduate students, open to qualified undergraduate students
MTEOR 502. Watershed Hydrology.
(Dual-listed with 402). (Cross-listed with ENSCI, GEOL). (3-3) Cr. 4.
F.
Prereq: Four courses in physical or biological sciences or engineering; junior standing
Examination of watersheds as systems, emphasizing the surface components of the hydrologic cycle. Combines qualitative understanding of hydrological processes and uncertainty with quantitative representation. Laboratory emphasizes field investigation and measurement of watershed processes.
MTEOR 504. Global Change.
(Dual-listed with 404). (Cross-listed with AGRON, ENSCI). (3-0) Cr. 3.
S.
Prereq: Four courses in physical or biological sciences or engineering; junior, senior, or graduate standing
Recent changes in global biogeochemical cycles and climate; models of future changes in the climate system; impacts of global change on agriculture, water resources and human health; ethical issues of global environmental change.
MTEOR 505. Environmental Biophysics.
(Dual-listed with 405). (Cross-listed with AGRON, ENSCI). (3-0) Cr. 3.
Alt. S., offered 2013.
Prereq: MATH 165 or 182 or equivalent and some computer programming experience (any language)
Hornbuckle. A description of the physical microenvironment in which organisms live. Emphasis on the movement of energy (heat and radiation) and mass (water and carbon) among organisms, the soil, and atmosphere. Applications to humans, other animals, plants, and plant communities. Semester project required.
MTEOR 507. Mesoscale Meteorology.
(Dual-listed with 407). (Cross-listed with AGRON). (3-0) Cr. 3.
Alt. S., offered 2012.
Prereq: MATH 166 and MTEOR 443
Gallus. The physical nature and practical consequences of mesoscale atmospheric phenomena. Mesoscale convective systems, fronts, terrain-forced circulations. Observation, analysis, and prediction of mesoscale atmospheric structure. Semester project and in-class presentation required.
MTEOR 511. Synoptic Meteorology.
(Dual-listed with 411). (1-4) Cr. 3.
F.
Prereq: Credit or enrollment in 454
Current weather forecasting and discussion. Applications of atmospheric physics and dynamics in real-time weather situations. Use of UNIDATA computer products.
MTEOR 516. Hydrologic Modeling and Analysis.
(Dual-listed with 416). (Cross-listed with GEOL, ENSCI). (2-3) Cr. 3.
Alt. S., offered 2013.
Prereq: Four courses in Earth science, meteorology, or engineering; junior standing
Study of the basic principles of hydrologic modeling, including rainfall-runoff analysis, lumped and distributed modeling, conceptual and physical models, parameter estimation and sensitivity analysis, input and validation data, uncertainty analysis, and the use of models in surface water hydrology. A range of common models are applied to study hydrologic topics such as flood forecasting and land use change impacts. Previous experience with Matlab or other programming language is needed.
MTEOR 518. Microwave Remote Sensing.
(Cross-listed with AGRON, E E). (3-0) Cr. 3.
Alt. S., offered 2012.
Prereq: MATH 265 or equivalent
Hornbuckle. Microwave remote sensing of Earth's surface and atmosphere using satellite- or ground-based instruments. Specific examples include remote sensing of atmospheric temperature and water vapor, precipitation, ocean salinity, and soil moisture.
MTEOR 542. Physical Meteorology.
(3-0) Cr. 3.
Alt. F., offered 2011.
Prereq: 342, MATH 266, PHYS 222
Planetary atmospheres, radiative equilibrium models, radiative transfer, the upper atmosphere, remote sounding from satellites.
MTEOR 543. Advanced Dynamic Meteorology I.
(3-0) Cr. 3.
Alt. F., offered 2012.
Prereq: 455
The first half of a two semester sequence. Governing equations, scale analysis, simple types of wave motion in the atmosphere, instability theory.
MTEOR 544. Advanced Dynamic Meteorology II.
(3-0) Cr. 3.
Alt. S., offered 2012.
Prereq: 543
Continuation of 543. General circulation and dynamics of zonally symmetric circulations, atmospheric energetics, nonlinear dynamics of planetary waves.
MTEOR 552. Climate Modeling.
(Dual-listed with 452). (3-0) Cr. 3.
F.
Prereq: MTEOR 301
Developing and working with climate models based on fundamental physical principles that govern the climate systems of the Earth and other planets. Emphasis on coupled, nonlinear-system interactions of physical processes such as circulation dynamics, radiative transfer, and cloud/precipitation physics, starting with fairly simple 0- and 1-dimensional analytical and numerical models based on energy, mass, and momentum conservation. Observational study of seasonally evolving weather patterns that form climates around the world.
MTEOR 561. Geophysical Fluid Dynamics.
(3-0) Cr. 3.
Alt. F., offered 2011.
Prereq: 455 or E M 378 or M E 335 or PHYS 361
Basic concept of rotating fluid dynamics, governing equations and boundary conditions, dynamics of vorticity, potential vorticity and geostrophic motion, wave motion in a rotating system, dynamics of Ekman and Stewartson layers, ocean circulation.
MTEOR 571. History of Modern Meteorology.
(Dual-listed with 471). (1-0) Cr. 1.
Alt. S., offered 2012.
Prereq: MTEOR 341, 342, 411, 443, 452
Development of meteorological theories and numerical weather prediction, discoveries of important meteorological phenomena, and impact of weather and climate on important historical events.
MTEOR 590. Special Topics.
Cr. 1-3.
Repeatable.
Prereq: Permission of instructor
Topics of current interest.
A. Boundary-layer Meteorology
B. Tropical Meteorology
C. Mesoscale Meteorology
D. Global Climate Systems
E. Climate Modeling
F. Numerical Weather Prediction
G. Satellite Observations
H. Statistical Methods in Meteorology
I. Field Observations
J. Low Frequency Modes
K. Cloud Physics
M. Hydrology
N. Geophysical Fluid Dynamics
Courses for graduate students
MTEOR 605. Boundary-Layer Meteorology.
(3-0) Cr. 3.
Alt. F., offered 2012.
Prereq: 443 or equivalent-level course in engineering fluids
Atmospheric boundary-layer structure and dynamics. Diurnal and seasonal variations, turbulent fluxes and turbulence kinetic energy. Measurements and empirical relations for wind and temperature near the ground. Numerical simulation and applications to wind energy.
MTEOR 699. Research.
Cr. arr.
Repeatable.