Aug 06, 2026

2026-2027 Catalog

GEOL 105 - Physical Geology

PREREQUISITES: MATH 123 - Quantitative Reasoning or MATH 043 - Intermediate Algebra and demonstrated competency through appropriate assessment or earning a grade of “C” or better in and ENGL 093 - Introduction to College Writing and ENGL 083 - Reading Strategies for College or ENGL 095 - Integrated Reading and Writing, or ENGL 075 - Co-Requisite Integrated Reading
PROGRAM: Physical Sciences
CREDIT HOURS MIN: 4
LECTURE HOURS MIN: 2
LAB HOURS MIN: 4
DATE OF LAST REVISION: Spring, 2019

Introduces physical concepts and theories pertaining to current applications and trends in geology. Intermediate level concepts pertaining to geological materials, and geological processes will be illustrated in lecture and demonstrated in lab experiments.

MAJOR COURSE LEARNING OBJECTIVES: Upon successful completion of this course the student will be expected to:

Apply the scientific method of inquiry, including analysis based on scientific concepts and observations.
Use and convert physical quantities and measurements in both the SI and USCS unit systems.
Define the scope of physical geology, including Earth’s place in the universe and Earth as a system.
Describe geologic time, including relative versus absolute age dating techniques.
Understand the formation and structure of minerals.
Explain the rock cycle, including the nature and formation of igneous rocks, sedimentary rocks, and metamorphic rocks.
Discuss Earth’s energy and mineral resources, including nonrenewable and renewable resources, reserves, and ores.
Understand weathering, erosion, and mass wasting processes.
Describe the formation of soil.
Understand the water cycle and the interaction of surface water and groundwater.
Understand glacial landscapes, including the formation of glaciers, glacial erosion, glacial deposition, and glacial cycles.
Understand desert landscapes, including wind erosion and wind deposits.
Explain the theory of plate tectonics, including the different types of plate boundaries and the formation of tectonic plates.
Describe the formation of mountains, volcanoes, oceanic ridges, and deep sea trenches.
Describe the cause of earthquakes, tectonic faulting, and crustal deformation.

COURSE CONTENT: Topical areas of study include -