Earth & Planetary Sciences

(College of Letters & Science)

Michael E. Oskin, Ph.D., Chairperson of the Department

David A. Osleger, Ph.D., Vice-Chairperson, Undergraduate Program

Sujoy Mukhopadhyay, Ph.D., Vice-Chairperson, Graduate Program

Department Office. 2119 Earth & Physical Sciences Building; 530-752-0350; http://geology.ucdavis.edu

Faculty. http://geology.ucdavis.edu/people/faculty

Major Programs. See Geology, Marine & Coastal Science, and Natural Sciences.

Associated Program. Undergraduate students who might wish to become a K-12 STEM teacher should consult an advisor in the Cal Teach/Mathematics & Science Teaching Program (CalTeach/MAST) at http://mast.ucdavis.edu/ at their first opportunity in order to combine the prerequisites needed to apply for a credential program with general education requirements. The teaching credential program at UC Davis resides in the School of Education at https://education.ucdavis.edu/teaching-credentialma.

Courses. See courses listed under Geology.


Courses in GEL:
GEL 001—The Earth (4) Active
Lecture—3 hour(s); Discussion—1 hour(s). Introduction to the study of the Earth. Earth's physical and chemical structure; internal and surface processes that mold the Earth; geological hazards and resources. Not open for credit to students who have taken GEL 050; only 2 credits for students who have taken GEL 002. (Letter.) GE credit: SE, SL. Effective: 2019 Winter Quarter.
GEL 002—Earth System Science (3) Active
Lecture—3 hour(s). Solid and fluid earth and its place in the solar system. How the solid earth interacts with the atmosphere, hydrosphere, biosphere, and extraterrestrial environment. Only 2 units credit for students who have taken GEL 050; only 2 units credit for students who have taken GEL 001. (Letter.) GE credit: SE, SL. Effective: 2017 Winter Quarter.
GEL 002G—Earth System Science Discussion (1) Active
Discussion—1 hour(s). Prerequisite(s): GEL 002 (can be concurrent); GEL 002 required concurrently. Small group discussion and preparation of short papers for GEL 002. (Letter.) GE credit: SE. Effective: 2018 Fall Quarter.
GEL 003—History of Life (3) Active
Lecture—3 hour(s). Prerequisite(s): GEL 001 recommended. The history of life during the three and onehalf billion years from its origin to the present day. Origin of life and processes of evolution; how to visualize and understand living organisms from their fossil remains. (Letter.) GE credit: SE. Effective: 2013 Fall Quarter.
GEL 003G—History of Life: Discussion (1) Active
Discussion—1 hour(s). Prerequisite(s): GEL 003 (can be concurrent); GEL 003 required concurrently. Small group discussion and preparation of short papers for GEL 003. GE credit with concurrent enrollment in GEL 003: WE. (Letter.) GE credit: SE, WE. Effective: 2013 Fall Quarter.
GEL 003L—History of Life Laboratory (1) Active
Laboratory—3 hour(s). Prerequisite(s): GEL 003 (can be concurrent); GEL 003 required concurrently. Exercises in understanding fossils as the clues to interpreting ancient life, including their functional morphology, paleoecology, and evolution. (Letter.) GE credit: SE. Effective: 2013 Fall Quarter.
GEL 004—Evolution: Science & World View (3) Active
Lecture—2 hour(s); Discussion—1 hour(s). Introduction to biological evolution. Emphasis on historical development, major lines of evidence and causes of evolution; relationships between evolution and Earth history; the impact of evolutionary thought on other disciplines. (Letter.) GE credit: SE, SL, WE. Effective: 2013 Fall Quarter.
GEL 009—Geology Field Experience (1) Active
Fieldwork—1 session(s). Prerequisite(s): Consent of Instructor. At least one previous GEL class, or concurrent enrollment. Pass One open to non-Geology Majors only. Exposure to geologic features and earth processes in the field. Experiential instruction in earth-science concepts, spatial visualization, landscape evolution, deep time, critical thinking skills, and integrative scientific themes. One 4-5 day field trip. May be repeated up to 1 Time(s) when field trip destination differs. (P/NP grading only.) GE credit: SE. Effective: 2018 Fall Quarter.
GEL 010—Modern & Ancient Global Environmental Change (3) Active
Lecture—3 hour(s). Fundamental scientific concepts underlying issues such as global warming, pollution, and the future of nonsustainable resources presented in the context of anthropogenic processes as well as natural forcing of paleoenvironmental change throughout Earth's history. (Letter.) GE credit: SE, SL, VL. Effective: 2013 Fall Quarter.
GEL 012—Evolution & Paleobiology of Dinosaurs (2) Active
Lecture—2 hour(s). Introduction to evolutionary biology, paleobiology, ecology and paleoecology, using dinosaurs as case studies. (Letter.) GE credit: SE. Effective: 2013 Fall Quarter.
GEL 016—The Oceans (3) Active
Lecture—3 hour(s). Introductory survey of the marine environment. Oceanic physical phenomena, chemical constituents and chemistry of water, geological history, the seas biota and human utilization of marine resources Not open for credit to students who have taken GEL 116. (Letter.) GE credit: SE, SL. Effective: 2013 Fall Quarter.
GEL 016G—The Oceans: Discussion (2) Active
Discussion/Laboratory—2 hour(s); Term Paper/Discussion—4 hour(s). Prerequisite(s): GEL 016 (can be concurrent). Scientific method applied to discovery of the processes, biota and history of the oceans. Group discussion and preparation of term paper. Not open for credit to students who have taken GEL 116G. (Letter.) GE credit: SE, WE. Effective: 2016 Fall Quarter.
GEL 016V—The Oceans (3) Active
Web Virtual Lecture—3 hour(s). Introductory survey of the marine environment. Oceanic physical phenomena, chemical constituents and chemistry of water, geological history, the seas biota and human utilization of marine resources. Not open for credit to students who have taken GEL 116. (Letter.) GE credit: SE, SL. Effective: 2020 Winter Quarter.
GEL 017—Earthquakes & Other Earth Hazards (2) Active
Lecture—2 hour(s). Impact of earthquakes, tsunami, volcanoes, landslides, and floods on humans, structures, and the environment. Discussion of the causes and effects of disasters and catastrophes, and on prediction, preparation, and mitigation of natural hazards. (Letter.) GE credit: SE, SL. Effective: 2013 Fall Quarter.
GEL 018—Energy & the Environment (3) Active
Lecture—3 hour(s). Conventional and alternative energy resources and their environmental impacts. Basic principles, historical development, current advantages and disadvantages, future prospects. Oil, natural gas, coal, nuclear, wind, geothermal, water, tidal, solar, hydrogen, and other sources of energy for the 21st century. (Letter.) GE credit: SE, SL, WE. Effective: 2013 Fall Quarter.
GEL 018V—Energy & the Environment (3) Active
Web Virtual Lecture—1.5 hour(s); Web Electronic Discussion—1.5 hour(s). Conventional and alternative energy resources and their environmental impacts. Basic principles, historical development, current advantages and disadvantages, future prospects. Oil, natural gas, coal, nuclear, wind, geothermal, water, tidal, solar, hydrogen, and other sources of energy for the 21st century. (Letter.) GE credit: SE, SL, WE. Effective: 2015 Winter Quarter.
GEL 020—Geology of California (2) Active
Lecture—2 hour(s). The geologic history of California, the origin of rocks and the environments in which they were formed, the structure of the rocks and the interpretation of their structural history, mineral resources, and appreciation of the California landscape. Offered in alternate years. (Letter.) GE credit: SE, SL, VL. Effective: 2013 Fall Quarter.
GEL 025—Geology of National Parks (3) Active
Lecture—3 hour(s). Appreciation of the geologic framework underlying the inherent beauty of U.S. National Parks. Relationship of individual parks to geologic processes such as mountain building, volcanism, stream erosion, glacial action and landscape evolution. (Letter.) GE credit: SE, SL, VL. Effective: 2014 Winter Quarter.
GEL 025V—Geology of National Parks (3) Active
Web Virtual Lecture—1 hour(s); Web Electronic Discussion—2 hour(s). Appreciation of the geologic framework underlying the inherent beauty of U.S. National Parks. Relationship of individual parks to geologic processes such as mountain building, volcanism, stream erosion, glacial action and landscape evolution. No credit for students who have completed GEL 025. (Letter.) GE credit: SE. Effective: 2015 Spring Quarter.
GEL 028—Astrobiology (3) Active
Lecture—3 hour(s). Origin, evolution and distribution of life in our solar system and the Universe. Detecting habitable worlds, Drake equations, necessities and raw materials for life, philosophical implications of the search for life elsewhere. (Letter.) GE credit: SE, SL. Effective: 2013 Fall Quarter.
GEL 030—Fractals, Chaos and Complexity (3) Review all entries Historical
Lecture/Discussion—3 hour(s). Prerequisite(s): MAT 016A or MAT 021A. Modern ideas about the unifying ideas of fractal geometry, chaos and complexity. Basic theory and applications with examples from physics, earth sciences, mathematics, population dynamics, ecology, history, economics, biology, computer science, art and architecture. Offered in alternate years. (Same course as PHY 030.) (Letter.) GE credit: QL, SE. Effective: 2013 Fall Quarter.
GEL 030—Fractals, Chaos & Complexity (3) Review all entries Active
Lecture/Discussion—3 hour(s). Prerequisite(s): MAT 016A or MAT 017A or MAT 021A. Modern ideas about the unifying ideas of fractal geometry, chaos and complexity. Basic theory and applications with examples from physics, earth sciences, mathematics, population dynamics, ecology, history, economics, biology, computer science, art and architecture. Offered in alternate years. (Same course as PHY 030.) (Letter.) GE credit: QL, SE. Effective: 2020 Winter Quarter.
GEL 032—Volcanoes (3) Active
Lecture—3 hour(s). Role of eruptions, and eruptive products of volcanoes in shaping the planet's surface, influencing its environment, and providing essential human resources. (Letter.) GE credit: SE. Effective: 2013 Fall Quarter.
GEL 035—Rivers (3) Active
Lecture—3 hour(s). Introduction to geomorphology, climate and geology of rivers and watersheds, with case examples from California. Assessment of impacts of logging, agriculture, mining, urbanization and water supply on river processes. Optional river field trips. (Letter.) GE credit: SE, SL. Effective: 2013 Fall Quarter.
GEL 036—The Solar System (4) Active
Lecture—3 hour(s); Discussion—1 hour(s). Nature of the sun, moon, and planets as determined by recent manned and unmanned exploration of the solar system. Comparison of terrestrial, lunar, and planetary geological processes. Search for life on other planets. Origin and evolution of the solar system. (Former course GEL 113 & GEL 113G.) (Letter.) GE credit: SE, VL, WE. Effective: 2013 Fall Quarter.
GEL 050—Physical Geology (3) Active
Lecture—3 hour(s). Prerequisite(s): High school physics and chemistry. The Earth, its materials, its internal and external processes, its development through time by sea-floor spreading and global plate tectonics. Students with credit for GEL 001 or the equivalent may receive only 2 units for GEL 050. (Letter.) GE credit: SE, SL. Effective: 2013 Fall Quarter.
GEL 050L—Physical Geology Laboratory (2) Active
Laboratory—6 hour(s). Prerequisite(s): GEL 050 (can be concurrent). Introduction to classification and recognition of minerals and rocks and to interpretation of topographic and geologic maps and aerial photographs. Students with credit for GEL 001L or the equivalent may receive only 1 unit for GEL 050L. (Letter.) GE credit: SE. Effective: 2016 Fall Quarter.
GEL 053—Introduction to Geobiology (3) Active
Lecture—2 hour(s); Discussion—1 hour(s). Prerequisite(s): GEL 001 or GEL 002 or GEL 050. Introduction to interactions between Earth and life with an emphasis on how metabolism, cellular processes, evolution and ecology emerged within natural environments and have changed Earth’s surface. (Letter.) GE credit: SE. Effective: 2019 Fall Quarter.
GEL 055—Introduction to Geochemistry (3) Active
Lecture—3 hour(s). Prerequisite(s): (GEL 001 or GEL 002 or GEL 050); (CHE 002A or CHE 002AH); (CHE 002B or CHE 002BH). Introduction to key geochemical principles in Earth & Planetary Sciences; chemical bonding, geochemical affinity of elements, redox & acid base equilibria in geological systems, radioactive decay, isotopic fractionation and paleoclimate records. (Letter.) GE credit: QL, SE, VL. Effective: 2020 Winter Quarter.
GEL 056—Introduction to Geophysics (4) Active
Lecture/Discussion—3 hour(s); Laboratory—2 hour(s). Prerequisite(s): (GEL 001 or GEL 050); (PHY 007B or PHY 009B). Introduction to geophysical topics essential to all aspects of Earth and planetary sciences: theory of plate tectonics, gravitational field of planets, diffusion, rheology, seismology, and earthquakes. (Letter.) GE credit: QL, SE, VL. Effective: 2019 Spring Quarter.
GEL 060—Earth Materials: Introduction (4) Review all entries Historical
Lecture—3 hour(s); Laboratory—3 hour(s). Prerequisite(s): CHE 002A; (MAT 016A or MAT 017A or MAT 021A); (GEL 001 or GEL 050, GEL 050L). Physical and chemical properties of rocks, minerals and other earth materials; structure and composition of rock-forming minerals; formation of minerals by precipitation from silicate liquids and aqueous fluids and by solid state transformations. (Letter.) GE credit: SE. Effective: 2016 Fall Quarter.
GEL 060—Earth Materials: Introduction (4) Review all entries Active
Lecture—3 hour(s); Laboratory—3 hour(s). Prerequisite(s): (CHE 002A or CHE 002AH); (MAT 016A or MAT 017A or MAT 021A); (GEL 001 or GEL 050); GEL 050L. Physical and chemical properties of Earth materials; structure, chemical composition, and identification of rock-forming minerals; mineral-rock associations, and their origin from silicate liquids, aqueous fluids, and solid state transformations. (Letter.) GE credit: SE. Effective: 2019 Fall Quarter.
GEL 062—Optical Mineralogy (2) Active
Lecture—1 hour(s); Laboratory—3 hour(s). Prerequisite(s): GEL 060 (can be concurrent). Optical properties of inorganic crystals; techniques of mineral identification using the polarizing microscope; strategies for studying rocks in thin section. (Letter.) GE credit: SE, VL. Effective: 2016 Fall Quarter.
GEL 081—Learning in Science & Mathematics (2) Active
Lecture/Discussion—2 hour(s); Fieldwork—2 hour(s). Limited to 26 students per section. Exploration of how students learn and develop understanding in science and mathematics classrooms. Introduction to case studies and interview techniques and their use in K-6 classrooms to illuminate factors that affect student learning. (Same course as EDU 081.) (P/NP grading only.) GE credit: SS, VL, WE. Effective: 2013 Fall Quarter.
GEL 092—Internship (1-12) Active
Internship—3-36 hour(s). Prerequisite(s): Consent of Instructor. Lower division standing. Work-learn experience on and off campus in all subject areas offered by the department. Internships supervised by a member of the faculty. May be repeated up to 12 Unit(s). (P/NP grading only.) GE credit: SE. Effective: 2013 Fall Quarter.
GEL 098—Directed Group Study (1-5) Active
Variable—3-15 hour(s). Prerequisite(s): Consent of Instructor. Directed group study. May be repeated up to 3 Time(s) when content differs. (P/NP grading only.) GE credit: SE. Effective: 2013 Fall Quarter.
GEL 099—Special Study for Undergraduates (1-5) Active
Variable. Prerequisite(s): Consent of Instructor. Lower division standing. Special study for undergraduates. (P/NP grading only.) GE credit: SE. Effective: 2013 Fall Quarter.
GEL 101—Structural Geology (3) Active
Lecture—3 hour(s). Prerequisite(s): GEL 050; GEL 050L; (PHY 007A or PHY 009A); (MAT 016A or MAT 017A or MAT 021A); Consent of Instructor. Limited to 35 students. Study of processes and products of rock deformation. Introduction to structural geology through a survey of the features and geometries of faults and folds, techniques of strain analysis, and continuum mechanics of rock deformation. (Letter.) GE credit: SE. Effective: 2016 Fall Quarter.
GEL 101L—Structural Geology Lab (2) Active
Laboratory—6 hour(s); Fieldwork—2 hour(s). Prerequisite(s): GEL 050; GEL 050L; (PHY 007A or PHY 009A); GEL 101 (can be concurrent); Consent of Instructor. Limited to 15 students per session. Laboratory study of the processes and products of rock deformation. Introduction to the practice of structural geology through observations and analysis of rock deformation, including field measurement techniques and geologic mapping. (Letter.) GE credit: SE, VL. Effective: 2016 Fall Quarter.
GEL 103—Field Geology (3) Review all entries Historical
Fieldwork; Laboratory. Prerequisite(s): GEL 101L; GEL 101; Consent of Instructor. Field mapping projects and writing geological reports. Weekly classroom meetings devoted to preparation of maps, cross sections, stratigraphic sections, rock descriptions, and reports. Seven-eight days on weekends during quarter. (Letter.) GE credit: SE, VL, WE. Effective: 2016 Fall Quarter.
GEL 103—Field Geology (4) Review all entries Active
Lecture—1 hour(s); Fieldwork—6 hour(s); Term Paper. Prerequisite(s): GEL 101; GEL 101L. Field mapping projects and writing geological reports. Weekly classroom meetings devoted to preparation of maps, cross sections, stratigraphic sections, rock descriptions, and reports. Seven-eight days for field trips will occur on weekends during the quarter. (Letter.) GE credit: SE, SL, VL, WE. Effective: 2020 Spring Quarter.
GEL 105—Earth Materials: Igneous Rocks (4) Review all entries Historical
Lecture—2 hour(s); Laboratory—6 hour(s). Prerequisite(s): GEL 060; GEL 062; (MAT 016A or MAT 017A or MAT 021A); CHE 002B (can be concurrent). Origin and occurrence of igneous rocks. Laboratory exercises emphasize the study of these rocks in hand specimen and thin section. (Letter.) GE credit: SE, WE. Effective: 2016 Fall Quarter.
GEL 105—Earth Materials: Igneous Rocks (4) Review all entries Active
Lecture—2 hour(s); Laboratory—6 hour(s). Prerequisite(s): GEL 060; (MAT 016A or MAT 017A or MAT 021A); CHE 002B (can be concurrent). Origin and occurrence of igneous rocks. Laboratory exercises emphasize the study of these rocks in hand specimen and thin section. (Letter.) GE credit: SE, WE. Effective: 2020 Winter Quarter.
GEL 106—Earth Materials: Metamorphic Rocks (4) Active
Lecture—2 hour(s); Laboratory—6 hour(s). Prerequisite(s): GEL 105. Physical and chemical properties of metamorphic rocks; interpretation of metamorphic environments. Laboratory exercises emphasize the study of these rocks in hand specimen and thin section. (Letter.) GE credit: SE, WE. Effective: 2016 Fall Quarter.
GEL 107—Earth History: Paleobiology (3) Review all entries Historical
Lecture—3 hour(s). Prerequisite(s): GEL 003 or BIS 002A or BIS 010. Evolution and ecological structure of the biosphere from the origin of life to the present. (Letter.) GE credit: SE. Effective: 2016 Fall Quarter.
GEL 107—Earth History: Paleobiology (3) Review all entries Historical
Lecture—3 hour(s). Prerequisite(s): GEL 003 or GEL 053 or BIS 002A or BIS 010. Evolution and ecological structure of the biosphere from the origin of life to the present. (Letter.) GE credit: SE. Effective: 2020 Winter Quarter.
GEL 107—Earth History: Paleobiology (3) Review all entries Active
Lecture—3 hour(s). Prerequisite(s): GEL 003 or GEL 053 or BIS 002A or BIS 002B. Evolution and ecological structure of the biosphere from the origin of life to the present. (Letter.) GE credit: SE. Effective: 2020 Spring Quarter.
GEL 107L—Earth History: Paleobiology Laboratory (2) Review all entries Historical
Laboratory—6 hour(s). Prerequisite(s): (GEL 003, GEL 003L) or BIS 002B; GEL 107 (can be concurrent). Exercises in determining the ecological functions and evolution of individuals, populations, and communities of fossil organisms in field and laboratory. (Letter.) GE credit: SE. Effective: 2016 Fall Quarter.
GEL 107L—Earth History: Paleobiology Laboratory (2) Review all entries Historical
Laboratory—6 hour(s). Prerequisite(s): (GEL 003, GEL 003L) or GEL 053 or BIS 002B; GEL 107 (can be concurrent). Exercises in determining the ecological functions and evolution of individuals, populations, and communities of fossil organisms in field and laboratory. (Letter.) GE credit: SE. Effective: 2020 Winter Quarter.
GEL 107L—Earth History: Paleobiology Laboratory (2) Review all entries Active
Laboratory—6 hour(s). Prerequisite(s): GEL 107 (can be concurrent). Exercises in determining the ecological functions and evolution of individuals, populations, and communities of fossil organisms in field and laboratory. (Letter.) GE credit: SE. Effective: 2020 Spring Quarter.
GEL 108—Earth History: Paleoclimates (3) Active
Lecture—3 hour(s). Prerequisite(s): (GEL 001 or GEL 050 or GEL 116N or ESP 116N); CHE 002A; Consent of Instructor. Geological and environmental factors controlling climate change, the greenhouse effect with a detailed analysis of the history of Earth's climate fluctuations over the last 600 million years. Past and present climate records are used to examine potential future climatic scenarios. (Letter.) GE credit: SE, SL, WE. Effective: 2016 Fall Quarter.
GEL 109—Earth History: Sediments and Strata (2) Review all entries Historical
Lecture—2 hour(s). Prerequisite(s): GEL 050; GEL 050L. Principles of stratigraphic and sedimentologic analysis. Evaluation of historical and modern global changes in sedimentation within terrestrial and marine environments. Examination of the plate tectonic, climatic and oceanographic factors controlling the distribution and exploitation of economic fluids within sedimentary rocks. (Letter.) GE credit: SE. Effective: 2016 Fall Quarter.
GEL 109—Earth History: Sediments & Strata (3) Review all entries Active
Lecture—3 hour(s). Prerequisite(s): (GEL 001 or GEL 050); GEL 050L. Sediment formation, transport, and deposition. Interpretations of sedimentary processes across landscapes and through time in the context of environmental and geological problems. Reconstruction of ancient environmental change from sedimentary rocks. (Letter.) GE credit: SE. Effective: 2019 Fall Quarter.
GEL 109L—Earth History: Sediments & Strata Laboratory (2) Active
Laboratory—6 hour(s). Prerequisite(s): GEL 109 (can be concurrent). Methods of stratigraphic and sedimentologic analysis of modern and ancient sediments. Identification of major sediment and sedimentary rock types. Outcrop and subsurface analysis of sedimentary basins. GE credit with concurrent enrollment in GEL 109. Includes four one-day field trips. (Letter.) GE credit: SE, WE. Effective: 2016 Fall Quarter.
GEL 110—Summer Field Geology (8) Review all entries Historical
Fieldwork. Prerequisite(s): GEL 060; GEL 103; GEL 109; GEL 105 recommended. Advanced application of geologic and geophysical field methods to the study of rocks. Includes development and interpretation of geologic maps and cross sections; gravity, magnetic, electrical resistivity and seismic surveys; and field analysis of plutonic and volcanic rock suites. Eight hours/day, six days/week for six weeks. (Letter.) GE credit: SE, VL, WE. Effective: 2017 Spring Quarter.
GEL 110—Summer Field Geology (8) Review all entries Discontinued
Fieldwork. Prerequisite(s): GEL 060; GEL 103; GEL 109; GEL 105 recommended. Advanced application of geologic and geophysical field methods to the study of rocks. Includes development and interpretation of geologic maps and cross sections; gravity, magnetic, electrical resistivity and seismic surveys; and field analysis of plutonic and volcanic rock suites. Eight hours/day, six days/week for six weeks. (Letter.) GE credit: SE, VL, WE. Effective: 2020 Summer Special Session.
GEL 110A—Summer Field Geology: Structures & Neotectonics (4) Active
Fieldwork—40 hour(s). Prerequisite(s): GEL 060; GEL 103; GEL 109. Advanced application of geologic field methods to the study of deformed rocks and their interpretation in terms of tectonic processes. Includes development and interpretation of geologic maps, cross sections and stratigraphic sections. Six days/week for three weeks in an off-campus location. Not open for credit to students who have taken GEL 110. (Letter.) GE credit: SE, SL, VL, WE. Effective: 2020 Summer Special Session.
GEL 110B—Summer Field Geology: Volcanology (4) Active
Fieldwork—40 hour(s). Prerequisite(s): GEL 105; GEL 109. Advanced application of geologic field methods to the study of volcanic and plutonic rocks and their interpretation in terms of igneous processes. Includes development and interpretation of geologic maps, cross sections, stratigraphic sections, and outcrop scale observations. Six days/week for three weeks in an off-campus location. Not open for credit to students who have taken GEL 110. (Letter.) GE credit: SE, SL, VL, WE. Effective: 2020 Summer Special Session.
GEL 110C—Summer Field Geology: Special Projects (4) Active
Fieldwork—40 hour(s). Prerequisite(s): Consent of Instructor. Advanced application of geologic field methods to a special project location and the interpretation of field observations in terms of its geologic processes and geologic history. Variable field location and specific activities. Six days/week for three weeks in an off-campus location. (Letter.) GE credit: SE, SL, WE. Effective: 2020 Summer Special Session.
GEL 115—Earth Science, History, & People (4) Active
Lecture—3 hour(s); Discussion—1 hour(s). Prerequisite(s): GEL 001 or GEL 050. Study of interplay between the Earth and its human inhabitants through history, including consideration of acute events such as earthquakes and eruptions as well as the geology of resources, topography, and water. (Letter.) GE credit: OL, SE, WE. Effective: 2017 Winter Quarter.
GEL 116N—Oceanography (3) Active
Lecture—2 hour(s); Laboratory—3 hour(s); Fieldwork. Prerequisite(s): GEL 001 or GEL 002 or GEL 016 or GEL 050. Advanced oceanographic topics: Chemical, physical, geological, and biological processes; research methods and data analysis; marine resources, anthropogenic impacts, and climate change; integrated earth/ocean/atmosphere systems; weekly lab and one weekend field trip. (Same course as ESP 116N.) (Letter.) GE credit: SE, SL. Effective: 2017 Winter Quarter.
GEL 120—Origins: From the Big Bang to Today (3) Active
Lecture—3 hour(s). Limited enrollment. Long-term and large-scale perspectives on the origins of the universe, stars and planets, life, human evolution, the rise of civilization and the modern world. Multi-disciplinary approach to "Big History" involving cosmology, astronomy, geology, climatology, biology, anthropology, archeology and traditional history. (Letter.) GE credit: SE. Effective: 2013 Fall Quarter.
GEL 130—Non-Renewable Natural Resources (3) Active
Lecture—3 hour(s). Prerequisite(s): GEL 001 or GEL 050. Origin, occurrence, and distribution of non-renewable resources, including metallic, nonmetallic, and energy-producing materials. Problems of discovery, production, and management. Estimations and limitations of reserves, and their sociological, political, and economic effects. (Letter.) GE credit: SE, SL. Effective: 2016 Fall Quarter.
GEL 131—Risk: Natural Hazards & Related Phenomena (3) Active
Lecture—3 hour(s). Risk, prediction, prevention and response for earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, landslides, floods, storms, fires, impacts, global warming. (Letter.) GE credit: SE, SL. Effective: 2016 Fall Quarter.
GEL 132—Introductory Inorganic Geochemistry (3) Active
Lecture—3 hour(s). Prerequisite(s): GEL 060 (can be concurrent); CHE 002B. Nucleosynthesis of chemical elements, physical and chemical properties of elements, ionic substitution, elemental partition, distribution and transport among planetary materials, basic thermodynamics and phase diagrams, isotopic geochronometers, stable isotope fractionation, mixing and dilution, advection and diffusion, geochemical cycles. (Letter.) Effective: 2016 Fall Quarter.
GEL 133—Environmental Geochemistry (3) Active
Lecture—3 hour(s). Prerequisite(s): CHE 002A; CHE 002B. Introduction to Earth surface processes with a focus on topics of current environmental interest such as nuclear power and waste disposal, acid mine drainage, carbon sequestration, history of polar ice sheets and sea level change. (Letter.) Effective: 2020 Spring Quarter.
GEL 134—Environmental Geology & Land Use Planning (3) Active
Lecture—3 hour(s). Prerequisite(s): GEL 001 or GEL 050; Consent of Instructor. One course in Geology (GEL). Geologic aspects of land use and development planning. Geologic problems concerning volcanic and earthquake hazards, land stability, floods, erosion, coastal hazards, non-renewable resource extraction, waste disposal, water resources. (Letter.) GE credit: SE, WE. Effective: 2016 Fall Quarter.
GEL 136—Ecogeomorphology of Rivers & Streams (5) Active
Lecture—1 hour(s); Discussion/Laboratory—2 hour(s); Fieldwork; Term Paper. Prerequisite(s): Consent of Instructor. Upper division or graduate standing in any physical science, biological science, or engineering. Restricted to advanced students in the physical sciences, biological sciences, or engineering. Integrative multidisciplinary field analysis of streams. Class project examines hydrology, geomorphology, water quality and aquatic and riparian ecology of degraded and pristine stream systems. Includes cooperative two-week field survey in remote wilderness settings with students from diverse scientific backgrounds. (Letter.) GE credit: SE, WE. Effective: 2013 Fall Quarter.
GEL 138—Introductory Volcanology (4) Active
Lecture—2 hour(s); Fieldwork—6 hour(s). Prerequisite(s): GEL 060; GEL 109; Consent of Instructor. Principles of physical and chemical volcanology. Taught in a volcanically active setting (e.g., Hawaii) with a strong field component. (Letter.) GE credit: SE. Effective: 2016 Fall Quarter.
GEL 139—Rivers: Form, Function and Management (4) Review all entries Historical
Lecture—3 hour(s); Fieldwork—3 hour(s). Prerequisite(s): GEL 050 or GEL 050L; MAT 016B or 021B recommended. Analysis of river form and processes, emphasis on fluvial geomorphology, and river and stream restoration; case studies to illustrate concepts and applications. Two weekend field trips required. Offered irregularly. (Letter.) GE credit: SE. Effective: 2016 Fall Quarter.
GEL 139—Rivers: Form, Function & Management (4) Review all entries Active
Lecture—3 hour(s); Fieldwork—3 hour(s). Prerequisite(s): GEL 050 or GEL 050L; MAT 016B or MAT 017B or MAT 021B recommended. Analysis of river form and processes, emphasis on fluvial geomorphology, and river and stream restoration; case studies to illustrate concepts and applications. Two weekend field trips required. Offered irregularly. (Letter.) GE credit: SE. Effective: 2020 Winter Quarter.
GEL 140—Introduction to Process Geomorphology (4) Review all entries Historical
Lecture—3 hour(s); Laboratory—3 hour(s). Prerequisite(s): (GEL 001 or GEL 050); (MAT 016B or MAT 021B). Quantitative description and interpretation of landscapes with emphasis on the relationships between physical processes, mass conservation, and landform evolution. Topics covered include physical and chemical weathering, hillslopes, debris flows, fluvial systems, alluvial fans, pedogenesis, eolian transport, glaciation and Quaternary geochronology. (Letter.) Effective: 2016 Fall Quarter.
GEL 140—Introduction to Process Geomorphology (4) Review all entries Active
Lecture—3 hour(s); Laboratory—3 hour(s). Prerequisite(s): (GEL 001 or GEL 050); (MAT 016B or MAT 017B or MAT 021B). Quantitative description and interpretation of landscapes with emphasis on the relationships between physical processes, mass conservation, and landform evolution. Topics covered include physical & chemical weathering, hillslopes, debris flows, fluvial systems, alluvial fans, pedogenesis, eolian transport, glaciation and Quaternary geochronology. (Letter.) Effective: 2020 Winter Quarter.
GEL 141—Evolutionary History of Vertebrates (3) Review all entries Historical
Lecture—3 hour(s). Prerequisite(s): GEL 003 or BIS 002A. Evolutionary history of vertebrates; fossil record and phylogeny; timing of major evolutionary events; appearance of major vertebrate groups; physical constraints in vertebrate evolution; paleobiogeography of vertebrates; effect of continental movement on vertebrate evolution; dinosaurs and other strange vertebrates. Offered in alternate years. (Letter.) GE credit: SE. Effective: 2016 Fall Quarter.
GEL 141—Evolutionary History of Vertebrates (3) Review all entries Active
Lecture—3 hour(s). Prerequisite(s): GEL 003 or GEL 053 or BIS 002A. Evolutionary history of vertebrates; fossil record and phylogeny; timing of major evolutionary events; appearance of major vertebrate groups; physical constraints in vertebrate evolution; paleobiogeography of vertebrates; effect of continental movement on vertebrate evolution; dinosaurs and other strange vertebrates. Offered in alternate years. (Letter.) GE credit: SE. Effective: 2020 Winter Quarter.
GEL 141L—Evolutionary History of Vertebrates Laboratory (1) Active
Laboratory—3 hour(s). Prerequisite(s): GEL 141 (can be concurrent). Augments lecture GEL 141 through handling of specimens enabling in-person examination of three dimensional features observed in vertebrate skeletons, both fossil and living. Offered in alternate years. (Letter.) GE credit: SE. Effective: 2016 Fall Quarter.
GEL 142—Basin Analysis (3) Active
Lecture—2 hour(s); Laboratory—3 hour(s). Prerequisite(s): GEL 050; GEL 050L; GEL 109. Analysis of sedimentary basins from initiation to maturity, including controls on sedimentary fill, subsidence analysis, sequence stratigraphy, core logs, and applications to petroleum exploration and hydrology. One two-day field trip. Offered irregularly. (Letter.) GE credit: SE, VL. Effective: 2013 Fall Quarter.
GEL 143—Advanced Igneous Petrology (5) Review all entries Historical
Lecture—3 hour(s); Laboratory—6 hour(s). Prerequisite(s): GEL 105; (MAT 016C or MAT 021C); CHE 002C. Physical and chemical properties of magmatic environments and processes of igneous rock formation. Laboratory study of representative igneous rocks. Offered irregularly. (Letter.) GE credit: SE. Effective: 2013 Fall Quarter.
GEL 143—Advanced Igneous Petrology (5) Review all entries Active
Lecture—3 hour(s); Laboratory—6 hour(s). Prerequisite(s): GEL 105; (MAT 016C or MAT 017C or MAT 021C); (CHE 002C or GEL 055). Physical and chemical properties of magmatic environments and processes of igneous rock formation. Laboratory study of representative igneous rocks. Offered irregularly. (Letter.) GE credit: SE. Effective: 2020 Winter Quarter.
GEL 144—Historical Ecology (3) Active
Lecture—3 hour(s). Prerequisite(s): Upper division course in environmental science or ecology, or an introductory course in paleobiology. Ancient ecosystems and the factors that caused them to change. Species, expansion, evolution of new modes of life, geologically induced variations in resource supply, and extinction provide historical perspective on the biosphere of future. (Letter.) GE credit: SE, WE. Effective: 2013 Fall Quarter.
GEL 145—Advanced Metamorphic Petrology (5) Review all entries Historical
Lecture—3 hour(s); Laboratory—6 hour(s). Prerequisite(s): GEL 106; (HYD 134 or CHE 002C); (MAT 016C or MAT 021C). Metamorphic processes and the origin of metamorphic rocks. Laboratory study of representative rock suites. Offered irregularly. (Letter.) GE credit: SE. Effective: 2013 Fall Quarter.
GEL 145—Advanced Metamorphic Petrology (5) Review all entries Active
Lecture—3 hour(s); Laboratory—6 hour(s). Prerequisite(s): GEL 106; (HYD 134 or CHE 002C or GEL 055); (MAT 016C or MAT 017C or MAT 021C). Metamorphic processes and the origin of metamorphic rocks. Laboratory study of representative rock suites. Offered irregularly. (Letter.) GE credit: SE. Effective: 2020 Winter Quarter.
GEL 146—Radiogenic Isotope Geochemistry & Cosmochemistry (3) Active
Lecture—3 hour(s). Prerequisite(s): CHE 002C; PHY 007C; MAT 016C. Basic principles of nuclear chemistry and physics applied to geology to determine the ages of terrestrial rocks, meteorites, archeological objects, age of the Earth, to trace geological/environmental processes, and explain formation of the chemical elements in the Universe. Offered irregularly. (Letter.) GE credit: QL, SE. Effective: 2013 Fall Quarter.
GEL 147—Geology of Ore Deposits (4) Active
Lecture—3 hour(s); Laboratory—3 hour(s). Prerequisite(s): (CHE 002C or HYD 134); GEL 060; GEL 062; GEL 105. Tectonic, lithologic and geochemical setting of major metallic ore deposit types emphasizing ore deposit genesis, water/rock interaction and the environmental effects of mining. Offered irregularly. (Letter.) GE credit: QL, SE. Effective: 2013 Fall Quarter.
GEL 148—Stable Isotopes & Geochemical Tracers (3) Active
Lecture—3 hour(s). Prerequisite(s): (CHE 002C or HYD 134); GEL 050; GEL 050L; GEL 060. Use of oxygen and hydrogen isotopes in defining hydrologic processes; carbon, nitrogen, and sulfur isotopes as indicators of exchange between the lithosphere, hydrosphere, atmosphere and biosphere. Radiogenic, cosmogenic, and noble gas isotope tracers. Offered irregularly. (Letter.) GE credit: QL, SE. Effective: 2013 Fall Quarter.
GEL 149—Geothermal Systems (3) Active
Lecture—3 hour(s); Fieldwork. Prerequisite(s): GEL 050; GEL 050L; CHE 002B. Geology, geochemistry, and geophysics of geothermal systems, including electrical power generation and direct use applications. Includes one day field trip on a weekend during the quarter. Offered irregularly. (Letter.) GE credit: SE. Effective: 2016 Fall Quarter.
GEL 150A—Physical and Chemical Oceanography (4) Review all entries Historical
Lecture—3 hour(s); Discussion—1 hour(s). Prerequisite(s): (ESP 116N or GEL 116N); PHY 009B; MAT 021D; CHE 002C; and Consent of Instructor. Physical and chemical properties of seawater, fluid dynamics, air-sea interaction, currents, waves, tides, mixing, major oceanic geochemical cycles. (Same course as ESO 150A.) (Letter.) GE credit: QL, SE. Effective: 2017 Winter Quarter.
GEL 150A—Physical & Chemical Oceanography (4) Review all entries Active
Lecture—3 hour(s); Discussion—1 hour(s). Prerequisite(s): (ESP 116N or GEL 116N); (PHY 007B or PHY 009B); (MAT 016C or MAT 017C or MAT 021C); (CHE 002C or GEL 055); and Consent of Instructor. Physical and chemical properties of seawater, fluid dynamics, air-sea interaction, currents, waves, tides, mixing, major oceanic geochemical cycles. (Same course as ESP 150A.) (Letter.) GE credit: QL, SE. Effective: 2020 Winter Quarter.
GEL 150B—Geological Oceanography (3) Active
Lecture—3 hour(s). Prerequisite(s): GEL 050 or (GEL 116N or ESP 116N). Introduction to the origin and geologic evolution of ocean basins. Composition and structure of oceanic crust; marine volcanism; and deposition of marine sediments. Interpretation of geologic history of the ocean floor in terms of sea-floor spreading theory. (Same course as ESP 150B.) (Letter.) GE credit: SE. Effective: 2017 Winter Quarter.
GEL 150C—Biological Oceanography (4) Active
Lecture—3 hour(s); Discussion—1 hour(s); Fieldwork. Prerequisite(s): BIS 002A; Consent of Instructor. A course in general ecology. Ecology of major marine habitats, including intertidal, shelf benthic, deep-sea and plankton communities. Existing knowledge and contemporary issues in research. Segment devoted to human use. One weekend field trip required. (Same course as ESP 150C.) (Letter.) GE credit: SE, SL. Effective: 2017 Winter Quarter.
GEL 152—Paleobiology of Protista (4) Active
Lecture—2 hour(s); Laboratory—6 hour(s). Prerequisite(s): GEL 107 or BIS 002A; Consent of Instructor. Morphology, systematics, evolution, and ecology of single-celled organisms that are preserved in the fossil record. Offered irregularly. (Letter.) GE credit: SE. Effective: 2016 Fall Quarter.
GEL 156—Hydrogeology & Contaminant Transport (5) Review all entries Historical
Lecture—3 hour(s); Laboratory—3 hour(s); Term Paper—1 hour(s). Prerequisite(s): HYD 145; ECI 144; Or equivalent of ECI 144. Physical and chemical processes affecting groundwater flow and contaminant transport, with emphasis on realistic hydrogeologic systems. Groundwater geology and chemistry. Fundamentals of groundwater flow and transport analysis. Laboratory includes field pumping test and work with physical and computer models. (Same course as HYD 146.) (Letter.) GE credit: SE. Effective: 2013 Fall Quarter.
GEL 156—Hydrogeology & Contaminant Transport (5) Review all entries Active
Lecture—3 hour(s); Laboratory—3 hour(s); Term Paper—1 hour(s). Prerequisite(s): HYD 144 or ECI 144; Or the equivalent. Physical and chemical processes affecting groundwater flow and contaminant transport, with emphasis on realistic hydrogeologic systems. Groundwater geology and chemistry. Fundamentals of groundwater flow and transport analysis. Laboratory includes field pumping test and work with physical and computer models. (Same course as HYD 146.) (Letter.) GE credit: SE. Effective: 2020 Spring Quarter.
GEL 160—Geological Data Analysis (3) Review all entries Historical
Lecture/Discussion—3 hour(s). Prerequisite(s): MAT 021A. Introduction to quantitative methods in analyzing geological data including basic principles of statistics and probability, error analysis, hypothesis testing, inverse theory, time series analysis and directional data analyses. Use of computer in lectures and homework. (Letter.) GE credit: QL, SE. Effective: 2016 Fall Quarter.
GEL 160—Geological Data Analysis (3) Review all entries Active
Lecture/Discussion—3 hour(s). Prerequisite(s): MAT 016A or MAT 017A or MAT 021A. Introduction to quantitative methods in analyzing geological data including basic principles of statistics and probability, error analysis, hypothesis testing, inverse theory, time series analysis and directional data analyses. (Letter.) GE credit: QL, SE. Effective: 2020 Winter Quarter.
GEL 161—Geophysical Field Methods (3) Review all entries Historical
Lecture/Discussion—3 hour(s); Term Paper. Prerequisite(s): MAT 021C; (GEL 001 or GEL 050); (PHY 007C or PHY 009C). Geophysical methods applied to determining subsurface structure in tectonics, hydrogeology, geotechnical engineering, hydrocarbon and mineral exploration. Theory, survey design and interpretation of gravity, electrical resistivity, electromagnetic, reflection and refraction seismology, and ground-penetrating radar measurements. (Letter.) GE credit: QL, SE. Effective: 2016 Fall Quarter.
GEL 161—Geophysical Field Methods (3) Review all entries Active
Lecture/Discussion—3 hour(s); Term Paper. Prerequisite(s): (GEL 001 or GEL 050); (MAT 016C or MAT 017C or MAT 021C); (PHY 007C or PHY 009C or GEL 056). Geophysical methods applied to determining subsurface structure in tectonics, hydrogeology, geotechnical engineering, hydrocarbon and mineral exploration. Theory, survey design & interpretation of gravity, electrical resistivity, electromagnetic, reflection & refraction seismology, and ground-penetrating radar measurements. (Letter.) GE credit: QL, SE. Effective: 2020 Winter Quarter.
GEL 162—Geophysics of the Solid Earth (3) Review all entries Historical
Lecture—3 hour(s). Prerequisite(s): MAT 021C; (PHY 007C or PHY 009C); Consent of Instructor. Theory and use of physics in the study of the solid earth. Gravity, magnetism, paleomagnetism, and heat flow. Application to the interpretation of the regional and large-scale structure of the earth and to plate tectonics. Offered irregularly. (Letter.) GE credit: QL, SE. Effective: 2016 Fall Quarter.
GEL 162—Geophysics of the Solid Earth (3) Review all entries Active
Lecture—3 hour(s). Prerequisite(s): (MAT 016C or MAT 017C or MAT 021C); (PHY 007C or PHY 009C or GEL 056); Consent of Instructor. Theory and use of physics in the study of the solid earth. Gravity, magnetism, paleomagnetism, and heat flow. Application to the interpretation of the regional and large-scale structure of the earth and to plate tectonics. Offered irregularly. (Letter.) GE credit: QL, SE. Effective: 2020 Winter Quarter.
GEL 163—Planetary Geology & Geophysics (3) Active
Lecture—3 hour(s). Prerequisite(s): (GEL 001 or GEL 002 or GEL 028 or GEL 036 or GEL 050 or AST 010G or AST 010L or AST 010S or AST 025); (MAT 016A or MAT 017A or MAT 021A); (PHY 007A or PHY 009A); or High School Physics. Principles of planetary science. Planetary dynamics, including orbital mechanics, tidal interactions and ring dynamics. Theory of planetary interiors, gravitational fields, rotational dynamics. Physics of planetary atmospheres. Geological processes, landforms and their modification. Methods of analysis from Earth-based observations and spacecraft. (Letter.) GE credit: QL, SE. Effective: 2019 Winter Quarter.
GEL 175— Advanced Field Geology (3) Active
Discussion—3 hour(s); Fieldwork—6 hour(s). Prerequisite(s): Consent of Instructor. Advanced field studies of selected geologic terrains, interpretation and discussion of field observations. Offered irregularly. May be repeated up to 2 Time(s) when instructors differs. (P/NP grading only.) GE credit: SE. Effective: 2013 Fall Quarter.
GEL 181—Teaching in Science & Mathematics (2) Active
Lecture/Discussion—2 hour(s); Fieldwork—2 hour(s). Prerequisite(s): Consent of Instructor. Major in mathematics, science, or engineering; or completion of a one-year sequence of science or calculus. Limited to 40 students per section. Exploration of effective teaching practices based on examination of how middle school students learn math and science. Selected readings, discussion and field experience in middle school classrooms. (Same course as EDU 181.) (P/NP grading only.) GE credit: SS, WE. Effective: 2013 Fall Quarter.
GEL 182—Field Studies in Marine Geochemistry (2-8) Active
Lecture—3 hour(s); Laboratory—1-3 hour(s); Fieldwork—6-40 hour(s). Prerequisite(s): Consent of Instructor. Marine geochemistry with the opportunity of going to sea or into the field on land. Techniques of sea-floor mapping using bottom photography, marine geochemical sampling, and method of data reduction and sample analysis. Analysis of data/samples collected. Offered irregularly. (Letter.) GE credit: SE. Effective: 2013 Fall Quarter.
GEL 183—Teaching High School Mathematics & Science (3) Active
Lecture/Discussion—2 hour(s); Fieldwork. Prerequisite(s): Major in mathematics, science, or engineering; or completion of a one-year sequence of science or calculus and consent of the instructor. Limited to 40 students per section. Exploration and creation of effective teaching practices based on examination of how high school students learn mathematics and science. Field experience in high school classrooms. (Same course as EDU 183.) (Letter.) GE credit: OL, SS, WE. Effective: 2018 Fall Quarter.
GEL 185A—Conceptual Integrated Science for Non-Science Majors: The Physical World (2) Active
Lecture—1 hour(s); Discussion/Laboratory—3 hour(s). Conceptual, inquiry-based integrated science course. Topics in the Next Generation Science Standards. Elementary school level teaching practice. Physics, chemistry, and science inquiry. (Letter.) GE credit: SE, SL. Effective: 2017 Winter Quarter.
GEL 185B—Conceptual Integrated Science for Non-Science Majors: Earth System Science (2) Active
Lecture—1 hour(s); Discussion/Laboratory—3 hour(s). Conceptual, inquiry-based integrated science course. Topics in the Next Generation Science Standards. Elementary school level teaching practice. Earth, space and environmental science, and science inquiry. (Letter.) GE credit: SE, SL. Effective: 2016 Fall Quarter.
GEL 186—Facilitating Learning in STEM Classrooms (1) Active
Lecture/Discussion—1 hour(s). STEM Learning Assistant Seminar. Theoretical and practical issues of effective teaching in discussion/labs: student-centered, active, cooperative learning environments, responsive teaching, and differentiated classroom instruction. (Letter.) GE credit: SS. Effective: 2016 Fall Quarter.
GEL 190—Seminar in Geology (1) Active
Discussion—1 hour(s); Seminar—1 hour(s). Presentation and discussion of current topics in geology by visiting lecturers, staff, and students. Written abstracts. May be repeated for credit. (P/NP grading only.) GE credit: SE. Effective: 2016 Fall Quarter.
GEL 192—Internship in Geology (1-12) Active
Internship. Prerequisite(s): Upper division standing; project approval prior to internship. Supervised work experience in geology. May be repeated up to 10 Unit(s). (P/NP grading only.) GE credit: SE. Effective: 2013 Fall Quarter.
GEL 194A—Senior Thesis (3) Active
Variable. Prerequisite(s): Open to Geology majors who have completed 135 units and who do not qualify for the Honors Program. Guided independent study of a selected topic, leading to the writing of a senior thesis. (Letter.) GE credit: SE, WE. Effective: 2013 Fall Quarter.
GEL 194B—Senior Thesis (3) Active
Variable. Prerequisite(s): Open to Geology majors who have completed 135 units and who do not qualify for the Honors Program. Guided independent study of a selected topic, leading to the writing of a senior thesis. (Letter.) GE credit: SE, WE. Effective: 2013 Fall Quarter.
GEL 194HA—Senior Honors Project (3) Active
Independent Study—9 hour(s). Prerequisite(s): Open to Geology majors who have completed 135 units and who qualify for the Honors Program. Guided independent study of a selected topic, leading to the writing of an honors thesis. (Letter.) GE credit: SE, WE. Effective: 2013 Fall Quarter.
GEL 194HB—Senior Honors Project (3) Active
Independent Study—9 hour(s). Prerequisite(s): Open to Geology majors who have completed 135 units and who qualify for the Honors Program. Guided independent study of a selected topic, leading to the writing of an honors thesis. (Letter.) GE credit: SE, WE. Effective: 2013 Fall Quarter.
GEL 198—Directed Group Study (1-5) Active
Variable—3-15 hour(s). Prerequisite(s): Senior standing in Geology or consent of instructor. Group study focused on topics in Geology. (P/NP grading only.) GE credit: SE. Effective: 2016 Spring Quarter.
GEL 199—Special Study for Advanced Undergraduates (1-5) Active
Variable. Special study for advanced undergraduates. (P/NP grading only.) GE credit: SE. Effective: 2013 Fall Quarter.
GEL 205—Advanced Field Stratigraphy (3) Active
Lecture—1 hour(s); Fieldwork—2 hour(s). Prerequisite(s): GEL 109; GEL 110; or Consent of Instructor. GEL 206 recommended. Fieldwork over spring break. Application of stratigraphic techniques to research problems. Collection, compilation, and interpretation of field data. Integration of data with models for deposition and interpretations of Earth history. Topics will vary. Offered irregularly. May be repeated for credit. (Letter.) Effective: 2013 Fall Quarter.
GEL 206—Stratigraphic Analysis (3) Active
Lecture—3 hour(s). Prerequisite(s): GEL 109; GEL 109L; or Consent of Instructor. GEL 144 recommended. Topics in advanced methods of stratigraphic analysis, regional stratigraphy and sedimentation, and sedimentary basin analysis. Emphasis on techniques used to interpret stratigraphic record and on current issues in stratigraphy and sedimentation. Offered irregularly. May be repeated for credit when topic differs. (Letter.) Effective: 2013 Fall Quarter.
GEL 214—Active Tectonics (3) Active
Lecture/Discussion—3 hour(s). Prerequisite(s): Graduate standing or consent of instructor. Active deformation associated with faults, landslides, and volcanoes. Geodetic measurement techniques such as triangulation, trilateration, leveling, Global Positioning System (GPS), and radar interferometry. GPS data acquisition and analysis. Inversion of geodetic data and mechanical models of crustal deformation. Offered irregularly. (Letter.) Effective: 2013 Fall Quarter.
GEL 216—Tectonics (3) Active
Lecture/Discussion—3 hour(s). Prerequisite(s): GEL 101; or Consent of Instructor. Nature and evolution of tectonic features of the Earth. Causes, consequences, and evolution of plate motion, with selected examples from the Earth's deformed belts. Offered irregularly. (Letter.) Effective: 2013 Fall Quarter.
GEL 217—Topics in Geophysics (3) Active
Lecture—1 hour(s); Seminar—2 hour(s). Prerequisite(s): Consent of Instructor. Discussion and evaluation of current research in a given area of geophysics. Topic will change from year to year. Offered in alternate years. May be repeated for credit. (Letter.) Effective: 2013 Fall Quarter.
GEL 218—Analysis of Structures in Deformed Rocks (3) Review all entries Historical
Seminar—3 hour(s). Prerequisite(s): GEL 100; GEL 100L; GEL 101; GEL 101L; GEL 170; or Consent of Instructor. Recent advances in the understanding and analysis of structures in brittlely and ductilely deformed rocks. Detailed investigation of the characteristics of the structures, models for their formation, and applications to inferring the kinematics of larger scale tectonics. Offered irregularly. (Letter.) Effective: 2013 Fall Quarter.
GEL 218—Analysis of Structures in Deformed Rocks (3) Review all entries Active
Seminar—3 hour(s). Prerequisite(s): GEL 101; GEL 101L; or Consent of Instructor. Recent advances in the understanding and analysis of structures in brittlely and ductilely deformed rocks. Detailed investigation of the characteristics of the structures, models for their formation, and applications to inferring the kinematics of larger scale tectonics. Offered irregularly. (Letter.) Effective: 2020 Winter Quarter.
GEL 219—Fracture and Flow of Rocks (3) Review all entries Historical
Lecture—3 hour(s). Prerequisite(s): GEL 100; GEL 101; or Consent of Instructor. Origins of those structures in rocks associated with brittle and ductile deformation. Theoretical analysis, using continuum mechanics, and experimental evidence for the origin of the structures with emphasis on deformational processes in the earth. Offered irregularly. (Letter.) Effective: 2013 Fall Quarter.
GEL 219—Fracture & Flow of Rocks (3) Review all entries Active
Lecture—3 hour(s). Prerequisite(s): GEL 101; or Consent of Instructor. Origins of those structures in rocks associated with brittle and ductile deformation. Theoretical analysis, using continuum mechanics, and experimental evidence for the origin of the structures with emphasis on deformational processes in the earth. Offered irregularly. (Letter.) Effective: 2020 Winter Quarter.
GEL 220—Mechanics of Geologic Structures (3) Review all entries Historical
Lecture—3 hour(s). Prerequisite(s): MAT 021C; (PHY 009A; or PHY 005A); GEL 170; or Consent of Instructor; MAT 021D and MAT 022A recommended. Development in tensor notation of the balance laws of continuum mechanics, and constitutive theories of elasticity, viscosity, and plasticity and their application to understanding development of geologic structures such as fractures, faults, dikes, folds, foliations, and boudinage. Offered irregularly. (Letter.) Effective: 2013 Fall Quarter.
GEL 220—Mechanics of Geologic Structures (3) Review all entries Active
Lecture—3 hour(s). Prerequisite(s): PHY 009A; MAT 021C; or Consent of Instructor. MAT 021D and (MAT 022A or MAT 027A or BIS 027A recommended.). Development in tensor notation of the balance laws of continuum mechanics, and constitutive theories of elasticity, viscosity, and plasticity and their application to understanding development of geologic structures such as fractures, faults, dikes, folds, foliations, and boudinage. Offered irregularly. (Letter.) Effective: 2020 Winter Quarter.
GEL 226—Advanced Sedimentary Petrology (3) Active
Lecture—2 hour(s); Laboratory—3 hour(s). Prerequisite(s): GEL 144; or Consent of Instructor. Advanced petrography and geochemistry of sediments and sedimentary rocks. Geochemical, textural and mineralogical evolution of sedimentary rocks reflecting depositional or burial processes. Laboratory work emphasizes thin section study of rocks. Offered irregularly. May be repeated for credit when topic differs. (Letter.) Effective: 2013 Fall Quarter.
GEL 227—Stable Isotopes Biogeochemistry (4) Active
Lecture—2 hour(s); Laboratory—6 hour(s). Prerequisite(s): Consent of Instructor. Graduate standing. Discussion and application of stable isotope techniques for scientific research problems. Emphasizes carbon, oxygen, nitrogen, hydrogen and sulfur isotopes. Laboratory develops basic skills of cryogenic gas extraction and specific techniques for individual research using stable isotopes. Offered irregularly. (Letter.) Effective: 2013 Fall Quarter.
GEL 228—Topics in Paleoceanography (3) Active
Lecture—3 hour(s). Prerequisite(s): GEL 108; GEL 150A; or Consent of Instructor. Critical discussion and review of selected topics in paleoceanography and paleoclimatology relating to the history of the processes controlling and affecting climate change and ocean circulation throughout the geologic record. Topics vary. Offered irregularly. May be repeated for credit. (Letter.) Effective: 2013 Fall Quarter.
GEL 230—Geomorphology & River Management (3) Active
Seminar—3 hour(s). Prerequisite(s): GEL 139; Or equivalent; graduate standing. Impacts of management and land use activities on the geomorphology of rivers and streams. Evaluation and use of analytical tools for river assessment. Assessment of river and stream restoration strategies and emerging issues in river management. May be repeated for credit when topic differs. (Letter.) Effective: 2013 Fall Quarter.
GEL 232—Oceans & Climate Change (3) Active
Lecture/Discussion—3 hour(s). Prerequisite(s): Graduate standing or consent of instructor. Modern climate change and linkages between the ocean-atmosphere-cryosphere-terrestrial climate system. Importance of the ocean in forcing climate change, and the impacts of anthropogenic processes on the ocean. Topics vary. Offered irregularly. May be repeated up to 3 Time(s). (Letter.) Effective: 2013 Fall Quarter.
GEL 235—Surface Processes (3) Review all entries Historical
Seminar—3 hour(s). Prerequisite(s): GEL 050; GEL 050L; GEL 139; MAT 021B or MAT 016B recommended. Recent advances in the analysis of landforms and their evolution. Detailed investigation of the tools used to document surface processes. Evaluation of concepts and processes that govern landscape evolution. Offered irregularly. May be repeated for credit. (Letter.) Effective: 2013 Fall Quarter.
GEL 235—Surface Processes (3) Review all entries Active
Seminar—3 hour(s). Prerequisite(s): GEL 050; GEL 050L; MAT 016B or MAT 017B or MAT 021B recommended. Recent advances in the analysis of landforms and their evolution. Detailed investigation of the tools used to document surface processes. Evaluation of concepts and processes that govern landscape evolution. Offered irregularly. May be repeated for credit. (Letter.) Effective: 2020 Winter Quarter.
GEL 236—Inverse Theory in Geology & Geophysics (3) Active
Lecture—3 hour(s). Prerequisite(s): Consent of Instructor. Inversion of data for model parameters. Evaluation of parameter uncertainties. Linear and nonlinear problems for discrete and continuous models. Bakus-Gilbert inversion. Offered irregularly. (Letter.) Effective: 2013 Fall Quarter.
GEL 238—Theoretical Seismology (3) Active
Lecture—3 hour(s). Prerequisite(s): Consent of Instructor. Elastodynamic wave equation. Greens functions and source representations. Ray theory. Plane and spherical waves and boundary conditions. Elastic wave propagation in stratified media. (P/F grading only.) Effective: 2013 Fall Quarter.
GEL 240—Geophysics of the Earth (3) Review all entries Historical
Lecture—3 hour(s). Prerequisite(s): PHY 009B; MAT 022B. Physics of the earth's crust, mantle, and core. Laplace's equation and spherical harmonic expression of gravity and magnetic fields. Elastic wave equation in geologic media. Body and surface seismic waves. Equations of state, thermal structure of the earth. Offered irregularly. (Letter.) Effective: 2013 Fall Quarter.
GEL 240—Geophysics of the Earth (3) Review all entries Active
Lecture—3 hour(s). Prerequisite(s): PHY 009B; (MAT 022B or MAT 027B or BIS 027B). Physics of the earth's crust, mantle, and core. Laplace's equation and spherical harmonic expression of gravity and magnetic fields. Elastic wave equation in geologic media. Body and surface seismic waves. Equations of state, thermal structure of the earth. Offered irregularly. (Letter.) Effective: 2020 Winter Quarter.
GEL 241—Geomagnetism (3) Active
Lecture—3 hour(s). Prerequisite(s): Graduate standing. Nature and origin of the Earth's magnetic field. Present field and recent secular variation. Spherical harmonic analysis. Paleosecular variation. Polarity transitions and geomagnetic excursions. Statistics of polarity intervals. Dynamo theory. Planetary magnetism. Offered irregularly. (Letter.) Effective: 2013 Fall Quarter.
GEL 242—Paleomagnetism (3) Active
Lecture—3 hour(s). Prerequisite(s): Graduate standing. Principles and applications of paleomagnetism. Physical basis of rock and mineral magnetism. Field and laboratory techniques. Instrumentation. Analysis of paleomagnetic data. Statistical methods. Rock magnetic properties. Geological and geophysical applications. Offered irregularly. (Letter.) Effective: 2013 Fall Quarter.
GEL 246—Physical Chemistry of Metamorphic Processes (3) Active
Lecture—3 hour(s). Prerequisite(s): GEL 145; CHE 110A; or Consent of Instructor. Physiochemical principles of metamorphic mineral assemblages and methods of interpreting the paragenesis of metamorphic rocks. Offered irregularly. (Letter.) Effective: 2013 Fall Quarter.
GEL 247—Metamorphic Petrology Seminar (3) Active
Seminar—3 hour(s). Prerequisite(s): GEL 145; or Consent of Instructor. GEL 246 recommended. Selected topics in metamorphic petrology (e.g., mass transport processes, tectonic settings, geothermometry, thermal structure of metamorphic belts, regional studies). Offered irregularly. May be repeated for credit. (S/U grading only.) Effective: 2013 Fall Quarter.
GEL 250—Advanced Geochemistry Seminar (3) Active
Seminar—3 hour(s). Prerequisite(s): GEL 146; or Consent of Instructor. Critical review of selected topics in geochemistry including: ore genesis, hydrothermal and geothermal fluids, recent and ancient sediments, isotope geology, origin and chemistry of the oceans. Subject varies yearly depending on student interest. May be repeated for credit. (Letter.) Effective: 2013 Fall Quarter.
GEL 251—Advanced Topics in Isotope Geochemistry & Cosmochemistry (3) Active
Lecture/Discussion—2 hour(s); Term Paper. Prerequisite(s): Graduate standing or consent of instructor. Astrophysical context on origin of Solar System, synthesis of chemical elements, condensation sequence, star and planet formation, cosmochronology, building blocks of planets, development on planets' layered structure, atmosphere and hydrosphere and the role of comets/asteroids for volatile delivery. Offered irregularly. May be repeated up to 3 Time(s) when topics differs. (Letter.) Effective: 2013 Fall Quarter.
GEL 253—Current Topics in Igneous Petrology (3) Active
Seminar—3 hour(s). Prerequisite(s): GEL 143; or Consent of Instructor. Graduate standing in Geology. Topical seminar designed to help graduate students develop and maintain familiarity with current and past literature related to igneous rock petrogenesis. May be repeated for credit when topic differs. (S/U grading only.) Effective: 2013 Fall Quarter.
GEL 254—Physical Chemistry of Igneous Processes (3) Active
Lecture—3 hour(s). Prerequisite(s): CHE 110A; GEL 143; and Consent of Instructor. GEL 143 or consent of instructor; CHE 110B and CHE 110C recommended. Introduction of modern concepts in chemical thermodynamics and kinetics, and fluid dynamics of magmatic systems for graduate students in petrology. Offered irregularly. (Letter.) Effective: 2013 Fall Quarter.
GEL 255—Experimental Petrology (3) Active
Lecture—2 hour(s); Laboratory—3 hour(s). Prerequisite(s): GEL 143; or Consent of Instructor. Introduction to techniques and methods of design and executing experiments on Earth-forming minerals and rocks. Problems and examples from igneous and metamorphic petrology will be utilized. Offered irregularly. (Letter.) Effective: 2013 Fall Quarter.
GEL 260—Paleontology (3) Active
Seminar—3 hour(s). Prerequisite(s): Graduate standing in geology or a biological science. Selected problems in paleontology. Subject to be studied will be decided at an organizational meeting. Offered irregularly. May be repeated for credit when topic differs. (Letter.) Effective: 2013 Fall Quarter.
GEL 261—Paleobiology Graduate Seminar 1: Evolutionary Aspects (3) Active
Lecture—1 hour(s); Seminar—2 hour(s). Prerequisite(s): Graduate standing in Geology or a biological science; qualified undergraduates will be accepted on an exception-only basis. Treat one or more of several topics in paleobiology from a phylogenetic perspective, including major patterns in evolution, building the tree of life, extinction & phylogeny, phylogeny of major phyla, and the relation between taxonomy & phylogeny. May be repeated for credit when topic differs. (Letter.) Effective: 2013 Fall Quarter.
GEL 262—Paleobiology Graduate Seminar: Methodological Aspects (3) Active
Lecture—1 hour(s); Seminar—2 hour(s). One or more major methods used in the study of fossils: Morphometrics and three-dimensional reconstruction of fossils, phylogenetic methodology, the application of geochemical techniques, and electron microscopy. May be repeated up to 4 Time(s) when topic differs. (Letter.) Effective: 2013 Fall Quarter.
GEL 281N—Instrumental Techniques for Earth Scientists (3) Active
Lecture—2 hour(s); Laboratory—3 hour(s). Prerequisite(s): MAT 021A; MAT 021B; MAT 021C; ((PHY 007A, PHY 007B, PHY 007C) or (PHY 009A, PHY 009B, PHY 009C)); or Consent of Instructor. Laboratory research techniques for new graduate students in Geology. Demonstration of and exposure to appropriate techniques in research. (Letter.) Effective: 2013 Fall Quarter.
GEL 285—Field Studies in Marine Geochemistry (2-8) Active
Lecture—3 hour(s); Laboratory—1-3 hour(s); Fieldwork—6-40 hour(s). Prerequisite(s): Consent of Instructor. Marine geochemistry with the opportunity of going to sea or into the field on land. Techniques of seafloor mapping using bottom photography, marine geochemical sampling, and method of data reduction and sample analysis. Analysis of data/samples collected. (Letter.) Effective: 2013 Fall Quarter.
GEL 290—Seminar in Geology (1) Active
Seminar—1 hour(s); Discussion—1 hour(s). Presentation and discussion of current topics in geology by visiting lecturers, staff, and students. (S/U grading only.) Effective: 2013 Fall Quarter.
GEL 291—Geology of the Sierra Nevada (1) Active
Seminar. Prerequisite(s): Consent of Instructor. Short oral presentations by students and faculty concerning results of their past work and plans for future work in the Sierra. A written abstract is required following the format required at professional meetings. Offered irregularly. (S/U grading only.) Effective: 2013 Fall Quarter.
GEL 292—River Forum (1) Active
Seminar—1 hour(s). Prerequisite(s): Graduate standing. Review and discussion of latest research and fundamental issues surrounding riverine systems, with emphasis on physical processes. Topics vary. Offered irregularly. (S/U grading only.) Effective: 2013 Fall Quarter.
GEL 293—Geologic Event of the Week (1) Active
Seminar—0.5 hour(s); Discussion—0.5 hour(s). Prerequisite(s): Graduate standing. Seminar/discussion group to review and discuss recent earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and other significant geologic events. The focus is on understanding the available observations, the physical processes behind each event, the geological setting, and societal consequences. Offered irregularly. May be repeated up to 3 Time(s) up to 3 units. (S/U grading only.) Effective: 2013 Fall Quarter.
GEL 294—Structure/Tectonics Forum (1) Active
Seminar—1 hour(s). Prerequisite(s): Graduate student in geology or consent of instructor. Seminar/discussion group to review and discuss latest research in structural geology and tectonics, and on-going research of participants. Topics will vary each quarter depending on the interests of the group. Occasional field trips to areas of current interest. May be repeated for credit when topic differs. (S/U grading only.) Effective: 2013 Fall Quarter.
GEL 295—Geophysics Forum (1) Review all entries Historical
Seminar—0.5 hour(s); Discussion—0.5 hour(s). Prerequisite(s): GEL 100; GEL 101; or Consent of Instructor. Seminar/discussion group to review and discuss latest research in geophysics, and on-going research of participants. Topics will change each quarter depending on the interests of the group. Offered irregularly. May be repeated for credit when topic differs. (S/U grading only.) Effective: 2013 Fall Quarter.
GEL 295—Geophysics Forum (1) Review all entries Active
Seminar—0.5 hour(s); Discussion—0.5 hour(s). Prerequisite(s): GEL 101; or Consent of Instructor. Seminar/discussion group to review and discuss latest research in geophysics, and on-going research of participants. Topics will change each quarter depending on the interests of the group. Offered irregularly. May be repeated for credit when topic differs. (S/U grading only.) Effective: 2020 Winter Quarter.
GEL 296—Advanced Problems in Tectonics (3) Active
Seminar—3 hour(s). Prerequisite(s): GEL 101; and Consent of Instructor. Seminar dealing with current problems in tectonics of selected regions. Topics will change from year to year. Emphasis on study of recent literature. Offered irregularly. May be repeated for credit. (S/U grading only.) Effective: 2013 Fall Quarter.
GEL 297—Geophysics Forum (1) Active
Seminar—0.5 hour(s); Discussion—0.5 hour(s). Prerequisite(s): Graduate student status in the Geology Department, or consent of instructor. Seminar/discussion group to review and discuss latest research in geophysics, and on-going research of participants. Topics will change each quarter depending on the interests of the group. Offered irregularly. May be repeated up to 3 Time(s). (S/U grading only.) Effective: 2013 Fall Quarter.
GEL 298—Group Study (1-5) Active
Variable. Group study. (Letter.) Effective: 2013 Fall Quarter.
GEL 299—Research (1-12) Active
Variable. Research. (S/U grading only.) Effective: 2013 Fall Quarter.
GEL 390—Methods of Teaching Geology (2) Active
Extensive Writing/Discussion—2 hour(s). Prerequisite(s): Graduate student standing in Geology. Introduction to graduate-level writing and undergraduate-level teaching skills in geology. Persuasive (proposal) writing workshop; discussions on campus teaching resources, presenting information, managing classroom dynamics, evaluating student performance. Participation in teaching program required for Ph.D. in Geology. (S/U grading only.) Effective: 2014 Spring Quarter.
GEL 391—Ethical Issues in Earth Science (1) Active
Seminar—1 hour(s). Prerequisite(s): Graduate standing in Geology or consent of instructor. Reading and discussion of ethical issues arising in the earth sciences. Topics include scientific misconduct, gender equity in science, authorship of scientific papers, establishing priorities in research, and related issues. Offered irregularly. (S/U grading only.) Effective: 2013 Fall Quarter.
GEL 396—Teaching Assistant Training Practicum (1-4) Active
Variable. Teaching assistant training. May be repeated for credit. (P/NP grading only.) Effective: 2013 Fall Quarter.