ESSC 110 - The Dynamic Earth System (GEKN)
An introduction to the Earth System and its components. Utilizes the scientific method to address composition of the earth system, fundamental processes within the earth system and linkages between all components of the system. Includes consideration of how humans impact and are impacted by, the Earth System.
Credit Hours: 4 hrs
Prerequisite: ( or above) or (at least Math Level 3 placement)
Terms Offered: Fall, Winter and Summer
In this course, the Earth is viewed as a single, dynamic system, composed of four principal components: Geosphere (the solid Earth), Atmosphere (the gaseous outer envelope of the Earth), Hydrosphere (the liquid water component of the Earth), and Biosphere (the living component of the Earth). This course provides a detailed overview of how the scientific method is applied, in the context of the fundamental laws of physics and chemistry, to understand the Earth System, with particular emphasis being paced on the Geosphere component. The overarching goal of the course is to create scientifically literate citizens that are both willing and able to participate responsibly in a global community by: (1)carefully applying the scientific method as a tool for problem solving, in general (2) critically evaluating the scientific merit of anything that is presented as science (is it really science?), especially in the area of Earth System Science; and (3) thoroughly incorporating Earth System Science in important decisions and issues at the personal, local, national and global levels.
Last Updated: Prereq Change 12/2014, effective Summer 2015; Course Rotation 12/2014
Winter 2025 Course Sections
Fall 2024 Course Sections
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