|
|
OCEAN/ESS 410, Fall 2012 |
||||||||||||||
|
|
Syllabus: The aim of this class is to provide a basic introduction to the geological adn geophysical processes that form and shape the ocean basins and their margins. Prior to 2006, the class was organized into two distinct sections that dealt primarily with mid-ocean ridges and coastal sedimentary processes. Starting in 2006 class the class was revamped to cover the material in a more integrative and expansive fashion with more emphasis on global-scale processes and learning through in-class exercises. In 2008, the class schedule was changed to two 1-hour lectures per week with accomanying 2-hour labs many of which are computer-based. The benefit of the labs is that they emphasize learning through doing rather than listening. The disadvantage is that the class works poorly for students who do not attend on a very regular basis. In 2010 in class discussions of papers was added to the mix In the class, we will first learn to interpret global bathymetric maps in terms of plate tectonics and will investigate some of the geophysical processes that record the ocean's history and shape the ocean basins. We will learn how earthquakes are located and how we can deduce the style of faulting from earthquake records. We study volcanic and tectonic processes at mid-ocean ridges and subduction zones. We will then move on to understanding the role of sedimentary processes in shaping continental margins and briefly look at sediments in the deep oceans. There will be two weekend field trips to Mt. St. Helens and the beaches of the Olympic Coastline. Students are required to participate in one. There is also a required day in Puget Sound on the Thomas G Thompson. There is no required textbook for this course because no single textbook properly covers all the topics covered in this class. However, background reading will be assigned to cover the key topics presented. Grades for this class will be based on:
**A passing grade in each of these two components of the class is required to pass the class. Policy on homework deadlines Lab exercises will normally be due in class at the START of the next lab. If you have a valid reason for turning in an exercise or other assignment late you must notify the Instructor/TA as soon as practical and you will receive the appropriate extension. Otherwise assignments turned in up to 1 week late will be graded for a maximum of 50% credit. Policy on working collaboratively You are encouraged to work collaboratively on all the lab exercises but unless otherwise approved, everyone should turn in their own set of answers. |
||||||||||||||
|
Last Updated: |
Webpage maintained by: wilcock@u.washington.edu |
