GEOL 102 - Historical Geology

GEM Stamped: GEM 4: Scientific Ways Of Knowing

3 Credits

An overview of the evolution of the Earth and its biologic history, with some emphasis on local events and the geologic history of Idaho. Topics include the major physical events such as supercontinent cycles and the evolution of the North American continent and the Rocky Mountain region. The evolutionary history of life and its diverse changes as recorded in the geologic record will also be covered. The bizarre five-eyed sea-dwelling monsters of the Cambrian Explosion, Idaho’s ancient giant whorl-toothed shark Helicoprion, the local digging dinosaur Oryctodromeus, and the Ice Age short faced bear Arctodus will be among the ancient animals discussed. Field trips are included and may involve the collection of fossils and visits to local museums.

Corequisites: GEOL 102L