This is an archived copy of the 2012-2013 catalog. To access the most recent version of the catalog, please visit http://catalog.iastate.edu.

Geological and Atmospheric Sciences

http://www.ge-at.iastate.edu/

The Department of Geological and Atmospheric Sciences seeks to establish innovative teaching and outstanding research programs that apply fundamental principles of physics, chemistry, biology, and mathematics to cross-disciplinary problems related to the Earth sciences. As a basis for this mission, the Department maintains strength in fundamental topics of geology, meteorology, and hydrology that involve investigating the dynamic nature of the structure, composition, and interactive processes of the Earth and its
component systems. Study of these systems includes the application of scientific principles to a wide range of environmental, agricultural, and natural-resource problems, so that through its teaching and research activities,
the Department fosters a global perspective on the geosciences. Individual elements of study, such as atmospheric-circulation patterns, water cycling, geochemical interactions, glacier dynamics, or rock formation, are viewed not only in terms of their own intrinsic value, but also in terms of their role in the evolving Earth system. The Department recognizes that many fundamental advances in the geosciences are occurring at the interfaces with other disciplines and between subdisciplines in the field, so Department
faculty strive to form mutually beneficial research and educational collaborations with other programs at Iowa State University and other institutions around the world by taking a leadership position in solving problems at these interfaces.

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	arr †
GEOL 100L	The Earth: Laboratory	arr †
GEOL 102	History of the Earth	arr †
GEOL 102L	History of the Earth: Laboratory	arr †
GEOL 302	Summer Field Studies	arr †
GEOL 315	Mineralogy and Earth Materials	arr †
GEOL 315L	Laboratory in Mineralogy and Earth Materials	arr †
GEOL 316	Optical Mineralogy	arr †
GEOL 356	Structural Geology	arr †
GEOL 365	Igneous and Metamorphic Petrology	arr †
GEOL 368	Stratigraphy and Sedimentation	arr †
GEOL 479	Surficial Processes	arr †
And 9 credits of geology electives		arr †
Total Credits		0 †
† Arranged with instructor.

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	arr †
GEOL 100L	The Earth: Laboratory	arr †
GEOL 102	History of the Earth	arr †
GEOL 102L	History of the Earth: Laboratory	arr †
GEOL 302	Summer Field Studies	arr †
GEOL 315	Mineralogy and Earth Materials	arr †
GEOL 315L	Laboratory in Mineralogy and Earth Materials	arr †
GEOL 316	Optical Mineralogy	arr †
GEOL 356	Structural Geology	arr †
GEOL 368	Stratigraphy and Sedimentation	arr †
GEOL 411	Hydrogeology	arr †
One of the following		arr †
GEOL 419	Environmental Geochemistry
GEOL 426	Stable Isotopes in the Environment
GEOL 434	Contaminant Hydrogeology
GEOL 479	Surficial Processes	arr †
And 6 credits of geology electives		arr †
Total Credits		0 †
† Arranged with instructor.

Required supporting courses include:

CHEM 177	General Chemistry I	arr †
CHEM 177L	Laboratory in General Chemistry I	arr †
CHEM 178	General Chemistry II	arr †
CHEM 178L	Laboratory in College Chemistry II	arr †
PHYS 111	General Physics	arr †
PHYS 112	General Physics	arr †
One of the following		arr †
MATH 165	Calculus I
MATH 181	Calculus and Mathematical Modeling for the Life Sciences I
One of the following		arr †
MATH 166	Calculus II
MATH 182	Calculus and Mathematical Modeling for the Life Sciences II
And 6 additional credits from an approved departmental list of courses in the science, engineering, or mathematical disciplines outside of geology		arr †
Total Credits		0 †
† Arranged with instructor.

No more than 9 credits in 490 may be counted toward a degree in Geology.

See Four-Year Graduation Plan: B.S. in Geology - Traditional Option

See Four-Year Graduation Plan: B.S. in Geology - Environmental-Geology/Hydrogeology Option

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	arr †
or GEOL 201	Geology for Engineers and Environmental Scientists
GEOL 102	History of the Earth	arr †
GEOL 102L	History of the Earth: Laboratory	arr †
Total Credits		0 †
† Arranged with instructor.

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	arr †
MTEOR 201	Introductory Seminar	R
MTEOR 206	Introduction to Weather and Climate	arr †
MTEOR 301	General Meteorology	arr †
MTEOR 311	Introduction to Synoptic Meteorology	arr †
MTEOR 341	Atmospheric Physics I	arr †
MTEOR 342	Atmospheric Physics II	arr †
MTEOR 411	Synoptic Meteorology	arr †
MTEOR 417	Mesoscale Forecasting Laboratory	arr †
MTEOR 432	Instrumentation and Measurements	arr †
MTEOR 443	Dynamic Meteorology I	arr †
MTEOR 454	Dynamic Meteorology II	arr †
MTEOR 499	Senior Research	arr †
Total Credits		0 †
† Arranged with instructor.

An additional 9 credits must be chosen from:

MTEOR 402	Watershed Hydrology	arr †
MTEOR 404	Global Change	arr †
MTEOR 405	Environmental Biophysics	arr †
MTEOR 406	World Climates	arr †
MTEOR 407	Mesoscale Meteorology	arr †
MTEOR 452	Climate Modeling	arr †
MTEOR 490	Independent Study	arr †
GEOL 415	Paleoclimatology	arr †
or C E 372	Engineering Hydrology and Hydraulics
† Arranged with instructor.

Supporting work is required in areas at least equivalent to:

One of the following sequnces		arr †
CHEM 163 & 163L College Chemistry and Laboratory in College Chemistry
Or
CHEM 177 & 177L General Chemistry I and Laboratory in General Chemistry I
COM S 207	Fundamentals of Computer Programming	arr †
PHYS 221	Introduction to Classical Physics I	arr †
PHYS 222	Introduction to Classical Physics II	arr †
MATH 165	Calculus I	arr †
MATH 166	Calculus II	arr †
MATH 265	Calculus III	arr †
MATH 266	Elementary Differential Equations	arr †
STAT 105	Introduction to Statistics for Engineers	arr †
SP CM 212	Fundamentals of Public Speaking	arr †
Total Credits		0 †
† Arranged with instructor.

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	arr †
MTEOR 301	General Meteorology	arr †
† Arranged with instructor.

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.

Four-Year Plan: Path 1 - Students prepared to start calculus

Freshman
Fall	Sem. Hrs.
To be filled in
	0
Total credit hours: 0

Four-Year Plan: Path 2 - Students needing preparatory mathematics

Freshman
Fall	Sem. Hrs.
To be filled in
	0
Total credit hours: 0

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).

See Four-Year Graduation Plan: B.S. in Earth Science

See Four-Year Graduation Plan: B.A. in Earth Science

Communication Proficiency requirement: The department requires a grade of C or better in:

ENGL 150	Critical Thinking and Communication	arr †
ENGL 250	Written, Oral, Visual, and Electronic Composition	arr †
or ENGL 250H	Written, Oral, Visual, and Electronic Composition, Honors
One of the following		arr †
ENGL 309	Report and Proposal Writing
ENGL 314	Technical Communication
ENGL 302	Business Communication
JL MC 347	Science Communication
Total Credits		0 †
† Arranged with instructor.

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	arr †
MTEOR 543	Advanced Dynamic Meteorology I	arr †
MTEOR 552	Climate Modeling	arr †
† Arranged with instructor.

In addition, students without prior synoptic course-work must complete MTEOR 511 Synoptic Meteorology; other students must complete:

MTEOR 507	Mesoscale Meteorology	arr †
AGRON 507	Mesoscale Meteorology	arr †
MTEOR 504	Global Change	arr †
or AGRON 504	Global Change
MTEOR 605	Boundary-Layer Meteorology	arr †
or AGRON 505	Environmental Biophysics
† Arranged with instructor.

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 Courses

Courses primarily for undergraduates:

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 GEOL 100
Students will gain understanding of how Earth processes affect their lives and how they affect the Earth, and of the complex nature of the Earth and its processes. They will gain a deep knowledge of the methods used to understand the time scales and rates of Earth processes also through an applied research experience on groundwater and surface water.

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: GEOL 100 or GEOL 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 GEOL 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 106. Earth and Space science for elementary education majors.

(Cross-listed with ASTRO). (2-0) Cr. 2. F.S. Prereq: Major in elementary or early childhood education.
Fundamental concepts of Earth and Space Science, including the solar system, weather and climate, water and soils, plate tectonics, and geologic hazards. Online course format.

GEOL 106L. Earth and Space science for elementary education majors - lab.

(Cross-listed with ASTRO). (0-2) Cr. 1. F.S. Prereq: Restricted to elementary and early childhood education majors; to be taken concurrently with GEOL 106/ASTRO 106
Inquiry-based lab exploring fundamental concepts of Earth and Space Science, including the solar system, weather and climate, water and soils, plate tectonics, and geologic hazards. Must be taken concurrently with GEOL/ASTRO 106.

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 111. Geological disasters.

(Cross-listed with ENV S). (1-0) Cr. 1. F.S.SS.
Introduction to the catastrophic geologic processes that disrupt ecosystems and human activity. Includes a discussion on the role of plate tectonics, the hydrologic cycle, and humans as the driving forces behind selected case studies on volcanic eruptions, earthquakes, tsunamis, landslides, and floods. Summer - online only.

GEOL 112. Geoscience Orientation.

(Cross-listed with MTEOR). (1-0) Cr. 1. F.
Orientation course for students enrolled in the Earth, Wind and Fire Learning Community. Provides an introduction to Iowa State University and meteorology, geology, and Earth science programs for students enrolled in the department's learning community. Activities include academic and social activities, talks and presentations on academic success, resume writing, and study abroad, as well as research talks by faculty members.

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: GEOL 100 or GEOL 201, GEOL 100L, GEOL 102, GEOL 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: GEOL 102, GEOL 356, GEOL 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: GEOL 100 or GEOL 201
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: GEOL 100 or GEOL 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: GEOL 100 or GEOL 201
Mineral identification methods, especially hand-specimen identification. Nonmajor graduate credit.

GEOL 316. Optical Mineralogy.

(1-2) Cr. 2. F. Prereq: GEOL 100 or GEOL 201, CHEM 177, credit or enrollment in GEOL 315
Laboratory problems in mineral-identification methods utilizing optical microscopic techniques. 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,geothermal, biomass, hydroelectric, and solar energy. Biofuels. Energy efficiency. Environmental effects of energy production and use, including air pollution, acid precipitation, coal ash, mountaintop removal mining, oil drilling, hydraulic fracturing, groundwater contamination, nuclear waste disposal, and global climate change. Carbon sequestration and geoengineering solutions for reducing atmospheric CO2 concentrations. GEOL 324 does not count toward credits required in the Geology major.

GEOL 356. Structural Geology.

(3-6) Cr. 5. S. Prereq: GEOL 100 or GEOL 201; PHYS 111
Principles of stress and strain. Brittle and ductile behavior of rocks. Description, classification, and mechanics of formation 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: GEOL 315, GEOL 315L, GEOL 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. Nonmajor graduate credit.

GEOL 368. Stratigraphy and Sedimentation.

(3-2) Cr. 4. F. Prereq: GEOL 315, GEOL 315L, GEOL 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: GEOL 100 or GEOL 201, GEOL 100L, GEOL 102, GEOL 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 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. 3. Alt. SS., offered 2012. Prereq: MATH 402 or MATH 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, and electronic instrumentation for data collection. 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: Four courses in biological or physical sciences
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: GEOL 411 or C E 473; MATH 165 or MATH 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: GEOL 402 or GEOL 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: GEOL 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. Alt. S., offered 2012. Prereq: GEOL 100 or GEOL 201, MATH 181 or equivalent experience
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). (2-2) Cr. 3. F. Prereq: GEOL 100, GEOL 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. S., offered 2013. Prereq: GEOL 100 or GEOL 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: GEOL 100 or GEOL 201 or equivalent experience
The study of glaciers and glacial processes. Discussion of glaciology, glacial sediment transport, glacial landforms, and Quaternary history. Laboratory emphasizes topographic map interpretation and the Quaternary landscapes of Iowa. Nonmajor graduate credit.

GEOL 479. Surficial Processes.

(Dual-listed with 579). (Cross-listed with ENSCI). (2-2) Cr. 3. F. Prereq: GEOL 100 or GEOL 201 or equivalent experience
The study of physical processes that shape Earth's surface. 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 includes topographic map interpretation and local field trips. Nonmajor graduate credit.

GEOL 488. GIS for Geoscientists II.

(Dual-listed with 588). (Cross-listed with AGRON, ENSCI). (2-2) Cr. 3. Alt. S., offered 2013. Prereq: GIS course, such as GEOL 452, CRP 451, CRP 452, NREM 345, NREM 446, AE 408 or equivalent
GIS course with focus on the spatial analysis and modeling of raster data and triangulated irregular network (TIN) data. Uses ArcGIS and various extensions, such as Spatial Analyst, 3D Analyst, and ArcScene. Includes practical exercises during lectures, lab exercises, homework assignments, and (for GEOL 588) a class project. 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 GEOL 201, GEOL 100L, GEOL 102, GEOL 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 undergraduates:

GEOL 502. Watershed Hydrology.

(Dual-listed with 402). (Cross-listed with 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.

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. 3. Alt. SS., offered 2012. Prereq: MATH 402 or MATH 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, and electronic instrumentation for data collection. 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: Four courses in biological or physical sciences
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: GEOL 411 or C E 473; MATH 165 or MATH 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: GEOL 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: GEOL 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 542. Optical Mineralogy.

(1-2) Cr. 2. F. Prereq: GEOL 311
Introduction to using the microscope for mineral identification. Optical properties of minerals in immersion oils and in thin section. Research project required.

GEOL 551. Applied and Environmental Geophysics.

(Dual-listed with 451). (Cross-listed with ENSCI). (2-2) Cr. 3. Alt. S., offered 2012. Prereq: GEOL 100 or GEOL 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). (2-2) Cr. 3. F. Prereq: GEOL 100, GEOL 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 2013. 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 2013. Prereq: Credit or enrollment in AGRON 555
Laird 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. S., offered 2013. Prereq: GEOL 100 or GEOL 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: GEOL 100 or GEOL 201
The study of glaciers and glacial processes. Discussion of glaciology, glacial sediment transport, glacial landforms, and Quaternary history. Laboratory emphasizes topographic map interpretation and the Quaternary landscapes of Iowa.

GEOL 579. Surficial Processes.

(Dual-listed with 479). (Cross-listed with ENSCI). (2-2) Cr. 3. F. Prereq: GEOL 100 or GEOL 201 or equivalent experience
The study of physical processes that shape Earth's surface. 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 includes topographic map interpretation and local field trips.

GEOL 588. GIS for Geoscientists II.

(Dual-listed with 488). (Cross-listed with AGRON, ENSCI). (2-2) Cr. 3. Alt. S., offered 2013. Prereq: GIS course, such as GEOL 452, CRP 451, CRP 452, NREM 345, NREM 446, AE 408 or equivalent
GIS course with focus on the spatial analysis and modeling of raster data and triangulated irregular network (TIN) data. Uses ArcGIS and various extensions, such as Spatial Analyst, 3D Analyst, and ArcScene. Includes practical exercises during lectures, lab exercises, homework assignments, and (for GEOL 588) a class project.

GEOL 590. Special Topics.