GEOLOGY 3505 - Earth Systems History III

This course studies the fundamental geological and biological processes comprising the Earth System. It focuses on the interactions between the biosphere and the geosphere as the Earth System evolved, and on how those processes can be deciphered through the analysis and interpretation of sedimentary archives. The course will highlight the approaches used to interpret those archives, particularly the geochemical and physical techniques used to quantitatively constrain past climate and biogeochemical cycles, and those used to determine the age and rate of sedimentary deposits. The application of these techniques will be illustrated alongside a narrative of some of the key transitions in Earth's history, including the origins of the atmosphere, ocean and life, carbon cycle fluctuations through time, the expansion and demise of global ice ages and the role of humans in the modern Earth system. With a strong focus upon critical analysis and debate, the course will provide a scientific grounding relevant to a variety of contemporary issues, including resources, climate change and sustainability.