FACULTY & STUDENT RESOURCES
Environmental Courses
Earth and Planetary Sciences
Earth and Planetary Sciences 5. Introduction to Environmental Science: Atmosphere, Ocean, and Biosphere 2207
M. B. McElroy Fall M, W, 1–2:30
An introduction to the scientific basis for current concerns regarding possible changes in the global environment. Issues addressed include climate; depletion of stratospheric ozone; regional air pollution; acid rain; disturbance of biogeochemical cycles for life-essential elements C, N, P, and S. Note: This course, when taken for a letter grade, meets the Core area requirement for Science A.
Earth and Planetary Sciences 7. Introduction to Geological Sciences
0918
S. Mukhopadhyay, A. M. Dziewonski Fall M, W, F., 10; three hours of laboratory work each week and two day-long field trips on separate weekends required
A course designed for concentrators, but also appropriate for non-concentrators who desire a broad introduction to earth science. Evolution of the Earth with an emphasis on the processes that have shaped our planet. The theory of plate tectonics is used to explain the occurrence and distribution of earthquakes, volcanoes, and mountains. Labs and the weekend field trips familiarize students with rock types, geological features, and illustrate how geologists infer processes from the rock record. Note: Also appropriate for non-EPS concentrators who desire a comprehensive introduction to earth science. This course, when taken for a letter grade, meets the Core area requirement for Science A.
Earth and Planetary Sciences 8. History of the Earth 0166
D. P. Schrag, P.J. Huybers Spring M, W, F., 10; two hours of laboratory weekly and two 1-day field trips
Prerequisite: Secondary-school courses in science (physics, chemistry, biology) and calculus.
Examines the major stages and critical events in the history of the Earth, with emphasis on the interactions between global tectonics, the climate system, and biological evolution. Topics range from the formation of the Earth and other planets, to catastrophic events that drove mass extinctions, to the most recent period of human interaction with the environment. Laboratories introduce methods of investigation and analysis of the geological record. Note: Weekend field trip.
*Earth and Planetary Sciences 74. Field Geology 7239
P. F. Hoffman Fall TBA
Prerequisite: EPS 7, 8, 150, or 171 are recommended, or permission of instructor.
Attend a domestic or overseas geological summer field school of 3-6 weeks duration to learn methods of obtaining and interpreting field observations, and preparing geological maps, stratigraphic sections, and field reports. Field schools are selected by students individually with the advice and approval of the instructor. Note: Students must notify one of the EPS Co-Head Tutors and instructor of intention to enroll by May 1 of the preceding spring term.
Earth and Planetary Sciences 100. Computer Tools for Earth Sciences 0235
B. J. Meade, M. Ishii Spring Tu, Th, 2:30–4 and three hours of lab work each week
Prerequisite: Mathematics 1a and 1b, or equivalent.
An overview of modern computational tools with applications to the Earth Sciences. Introduction to the MATLAB programming and visualization environment. Topics include statistical and time series analysis; visualization of two- and three-dimensional data sets; tools for solving linear/differential equations; parameter estimation methods. Labs emphasize applications of the methods and tools to a wide range of data in Earth Sciences. Note: Given in alternate years.
Earth and Planetary Sciences 107. Environmental Geochemistry 1242
S. Mukhopadhyay, A. Pearson Spring Tu., Th., 1-2:30
Prerequisite: A course in college-level chemistry or permission from the instructor.
An overview of low-temperature geochemistry through the treatment of a selection of geochemical issues of environmental significance. Each unit places geochemical topics in the context of a broader geological perspective with particular emphasis on chemical principles. Students from all concentrations are welcome. Note: Given in alternate years.
Earth and Planetary Sciences 121. Terrestrial Planets 8577
S. Stewart-Mukhopadhyay Spring TBA
Prerequisite: Physics 11a, b, or permission of instructor.
The physical and chemical processes that influence the initial condition, evolution, and current state of terrestrial planets, focusing on the comparative evolution of Venus, Earth, Mars, and large moons. Topics include planet formation, evolution of atmospheres, interior composition and equations of state, core formation, differentiation, thermal evolution, and major surface modification processes. Note: Given in alternate years.
Earth and Planetary Sciences 131. Introduction to Physical Oceanography and Climate 2249
E. Tziperman Spring Tu., Th., 2:30-4
Prerequisite: Applied Mathematics 21a, b; Physics 11 or 15, or permission of instructor.
Basic observations and theoretical understanding of ocean phenomena from local surface beach waves to the effects of the oceans on global climate. Observations and dynamics of ocean waves, currents, turbulence, temperature and salinity distributions; basic fluid dynamics equations; the ocean’s role in climate; wind-driven circulation and the Gulf stream, thermohaline circulation and the potential instability of Europe’s climate, El Nino, the oceans, and global warming. Note: Given in alternate years. When offered, a fieldtrip to Cape Cod and the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution will be included.
Earth and Planetary Sciences 132. Introduction to Meteorology and Climate 8495
B. F. Farrell Spring Tu, Th, 10–11:30
Prerequisite: Mathematics 21 or Applied Mathematics 21, Physics 11 or 15, or permission of instructor.
Physical concepts necessary to understand atmospheric structure and motion. Phenomena studied include the formation of clouds and precipitation, solar and terrestrial radiation, dynamical balance of the large-scale wind, and the origin of cyclones. Concepts developed for understanding today’s atmosphere are applied to understanding the record of past climate change and the prospects for climate change in the future.
Earth and Planetary Sciences 133. Atmospheric Chemistry 7731
D. J. Jacob, S.C. Wofsy Fall Tu, Th, 1–2:30
Prerequisite: A course in college-level chemistry or equivalent, and Mathematics 1b.
A fundamental introduction to the physical and chemical processes determining the composition of the atmosphere and its implications for climate, ecosystems, and human welfare. Origin of the atmosphere. Nitrogen, oxygen, carbon, sulfur, trace metal cycles. Climate and the greenhouse effect. Atmospheric transport and turbulence. Stratospheric ozone. Oxidizing power of the atmosphere. Regional air pollution: aerosols, smog, acid rain.
Earth and Planetary Sciences 145. Introduction to Igneous Petrology and Petrogenesis 5940
C. H. Langmuir Spring TBA
How igneous rocks form and reveal the processes and fluxes involved in the circulation of the solid Earth. The course begins with the essential elements of igneous petrology—rock description and nomenclature, mineralogy, phase diagrams, processes of melting and crystallization, trace elements. We then consider the formation of igneous rocks at modern igneous settings -- spreading centers, convergent margins and ocean islands. We conclude with investigations of igneous phenomenon of the past, such as large igneous flood basalt provinces, anorthosites, komatites and the igneous history of the Moon. Note: Given in alternate years.
Earth and Planetary Sciences 150. Earth-like Planets and Planetary Materials 4726
S. B. Jacobsen Spring M, 1-2, W, 1–2:30, lab: F, 1–3
Prerequisite: EPS 7 or Science A-24, a course in college-level chemistry or equivalent, or permission of instructor.
Rocks and minerals – clues to understanding the origin and evolution of planetary surface environments, crusts and mantles. Principles of mineral structures, phase equilibria, and the origin of igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks. Primitive meteorites, martian meteorites, lunar samples and terrestrial rocks, including how timescales, origin and evolution of planets can be inferred from studies of rocks and minerals. Classification, identification, chemical and isotopic measurements of rocks and minerals in the laboratory.
[Earth and Planetary Sciences 167. Applied and Environmental Geophysics] 5143
A. M. Dziewonski Fall TBA
Prerequisite: Mathematics 21a, b or Applied Mathematics 21a, b. Some of the required mathematical tools are explained during the course. Geophysical methods used to search for oil and ores and to address environmental problems, such as ground water level, radioactive waste storage, estimation of seismic risk; theory, instrumentation and interpretation of seismic, gravity, electrical, and electromagnetic methods. Note: Expected to be given in 2007–08. Given in alternate years.
Earth and Planetary Sciences 166. Introduction to Seismology 1540
M. Ishii, A. M. Dziewonski Fall Tu., Th., 2:30-4
Prerequisite: Mathematics 21a, b, or Applied Mathematics 21a, b (may be taken concurrently), or equivalent.
An overview of the basic observations and methods of seismology. Earthquake detection, geometry, characteristics and relation to tectonics. Seismic stations and different types of data (body waves, surface waves, and normal modes). One-dimensional and three-dimensional structure of the Earth as inferred from seismology and implications for composition and dynamics. Seismic methods used in oil/gas exploration and environmental geophysics. Note: Given in alternate years.
Earth and Planetary Sciences 171. Structural Geology and Tectonics 0319
J. H. Shaw Spring Tu, Th 10-11:30 and three hours of lab work each week
Prerequisite: EPS 7 or 8, or permission of the instructor.
An introduction to the deformation of Earth materials, including the processes of mountain building and plate tectonics, faulting and earthquakes, folding, and ductile deformation. Structures are examined using geologic maps, balanced cross sections, seismic reflection data, satellite imagery, microscopic analysis, analog experiments, and numerical methods. Labs emphasize the applications of structural geology in the energy and environmental industries, and for assessing earthquake hazards. Note: Given in alternate years.
Earth and Planetary Sciences 180. Carbonates before Skeletons - (New Course) 8894
P. F. Hoffman Fall Tu., Th., 2:30-4
Prerequisite: EPS 5, 7 or 8.
Marine carbonate sediments are natural archives of changes in chemical, physical and biological oceanography over geologic time. Mesozoic-Cenozoic carbonates are essentially accumulations of biological skeletons, mostly microscopic. How were carbonate sediments produced and deposited in Precambrian time, before the evolution of skeletal animals? This course dissects well-studied Precambrian carbonate successions in northern Canada and southern Africa, revealing the processes and paleoenvironmental dynamics of carbonate sedimentation in oceans lacking skeletal organisms.
Earth and Planetary Sciences 181. Paleontology and Historical Geobiology 5162
A. H. Knoll Fall M., W., 11; three hours of laboratory weekly.
Prerequisite: EPS 8, OEB 10, or permission of instructor.
Principles of paleontology, including the nature and completeness of the fossil record, systematics, biostratigraphy, and paleoecology; principal focus on the fossil record of evolution in the oceans and its relationship to Earth's dynamic environmental history. Note: Given in alternate years.
Earth and Planetary Sciences 200. Atmospheric Chemistry and Physics 2675
S. C. Wofsy, D. J. Jacob Fall Tu, Th, 10–11:30
Prerequisite: Applied Mathematics 105b (may be taken concurrently), Physics 11 a, b, or 15, a course in college-level chemistry or equivalent, or more advanced courses; or permission of the instructors.
Atmospheric physics and chemistry: stratospheric and tropospheric transport, photochemistry, and aerosols; stratospheric ozone loss, tropospheric pollution. Fundamentals of radiative transfer, simple models of the greenhouse effect. Note: Students specializing in this area are expected to take EPS 200 and 236. These courses may serve as an introduction to atmospheric and oceanic processes for other students with strong preparation.
*Earth and Planetary Sciences 207r. Geochemical Oceanography 1602
D. P. Schrag Fall TBA
Topics in low-temperature geochemistry, oceanography, and climatology will be discussed. Students will read and present journal articles on relevant topics, and will rotate responsibility for leading discussions. Note: Given in alternate years.
Earth and Planetary Sciences 208. Physics of Climate 6561
Z. Kuang Fall TBA
Prerequisite: Applied Mathematics 105b (may be taken concurrently), Physics 11a and b or 15, or permission of the instructor.
Overview of the basic features of the climate system (global energy balance, atmospheric general circulation, ocean circulation, and climate variability) and the underlying physical processes.
*Earth and Planetary Sciences 210. Introduction to Isotope and Trace Element Geochemistry 9146
S. Mukhopadhyay and staff Fall TBA
The course emphasizes the principles of isotope and trace element geochemistry and their application to relevant problems in Earth and Planetary Sciences. Problems to be addressed include planet formation and differentiation, ocean chemistry, and climate reconstruction.
Earth and Planetary Sciences 237. Advanced Biogeochemistry 9320
A. Pearson Spring TBA
Prerequisite: EPS 137 or equivalent, or permission of instructor.
Covers topics from EPS 137 at in-depth, accelerated pace: Course emphasizes reactions at the molecular and isotopic level using biomarkers to understand natural processes. Considers complex microbial assemblages with attention to current and ancient records of earth systems. Note: Given in alternate years.
Earth and Planetary Sciences 238. Spectroscopy and Radiative Transfer of Atmospheres 1891
Instructor TBA Spring Tu, Th 1-2:30
Prerequisite: Ability to program in a high-level computer language (may be learned in parallel with the permission of the instructor).
Absorption, emission, and scattering, emphasizing Earth’s atmosphere. Atmospheric spectroscopic properties for various measurement geometries. Quantitative spectroscopy and atmospheric structure ; radiative transfer modeling and simulation and interpretation of atmospheric spectra from microwave through ultraviolet. Note: Given in alternate years.
Earth and Planetary Sciences 243. Geochemical and Cosmochemical Thermodynamics 2002
S.B. Jacobsen Fall M, W 1-2:30
Prerequisite: A course in college-level chemistry or equivalent; Mathematics 21a or Applied Mathematics 21a (may be taken concurrently).
The laws of thermodynamics, equilibrium and spontaneous transformations in systems of variable chemical composition. Components, phase rule and petrogenetic grids. Calculation of phase diagrams. Applications to cosmochemistry, igneous and metamorphic petrology, and environmental geochemistry. Note: Given in alternate years.
Earth and Planetary Sciences 260. Topics in Geophysics 2908
R. J. O'Connell, M. Ishii, B. J. Meade Spring TBA
Research seminar on current important problems on the state and processes of the solid Earth. Topics may include mantle structure and geochemistry, the core-mantle boundary, the continental lithosphere. Note: This course is coordinated with a research course at MIT.
Earth and Planetary Sciences 264r. Topics in Planetary Magnetism 1429
J. Bloxham Fall TBA
Prerequisite: Applied Mathematics 105a,b, Physics 153 or equivalent, or permission of instructor.
Theoretical and observational aspects of planetary magnetism. Topics: observations of Earthís and other planets magnetic fields; core structure, dynamics and energetics; rotation and convection; magnetohydrodynamics and magnetic field generation; kinematic and dynamic dynamo theory. Note: Given in alternate years.
Earth and Planetary Sciences 272r. Topics in Structural Geology 1546
J. H. Shaw Fall TBA
Prerequisite: EPS 171 or equivalent. Intended for graduate and advanced undergraduate students involved in structural geology research.
Seminar course investigating recent advances in structural geology and exploration geophysics with applications in earthquake science and the petroleum industry. Specific topics vary from year to year. Note: Given in alternate years.
Earth and Planetary Sciences 281r. Great Papers in Earth and Planetary Sciences 2474
P. F. Hoffman Spring TBA
The history and importance of selected geological controversies-age of the earth, ice ages, continental drift, origin of granite, origin of the moon, mass extinctions-based on study of the primary literature.
*Earth and Planetary Sciences 320. Topics in Planetary Sciences 6050
S. Stewart-Mukhopadhyay
*Earth and Planetary Sciences 330. Climate Atmospheric Chemistry and Free Radical Kinetics 3810
J. G. Anderson
*Earth and Planetary Sciences 331. Atmospheric Chemistry 4038
D. J. Jacob (on leave Spring term)
*Earth and Planetary Sciences 332. Dynamic Meteorology 2802
B. F. Farrell (on leave Fall term)
*Earth and Planetary Sciences 334. Atmospheric Physics and Chemistry 4886
M. B. McElroy
*Earth and Planetary Sciences 335. Climate Dynamics and Physical Oceanography 3095
E. Tziperman (on leave Fall term)
*Earth and Planetary Sciences 336. Geophysical Fluid Dynamics 8851
E.Tziperman (on leave Fall term)
*Earth and Planetary Sciences 337. Biological Oceanography 5704
J. J. McCarthy
*Earth and Planetary Sciences 338. Atmospheric Chemistry 7596
S. C. Wofsy
*Earth and Planetary Sciences 339. Biogeochemistry 9843
A. Pearson
*Earth and Planetary Sciences 340. Topics in Isotope Geochemistry: Research Seminar 2881
S. B. Jacobsen
*Earth and Planetary Sciences 341. Isotope Geochemistry 7103
S. B. Jacobsen
*Earth and Planetary Sciences 342. Topics in Atmospheric and Climate Dynamics 1732
Z. Kuang
Earth and Planetary Sciences 343. Topics in Quantitative Analysis of the Climate Record 2979
P. J. Huybers
*Earth and Planetary Sciences 344. Topics in Stable Isotope Geochemistry and Geochemical Oceanography 6291
D. P. Schrag
*Earth and Planetary Sciences 345. Solid Earth Geochemistry 7979
C. H. Langmuir
*Earth and Planetary Sciences 346. Topics in Noble Gas Geochemistry 2928
S. Mukhopadhyay
*Earth and Planetary Sciences 347. Topics in Environmental Policy 4360
J. P. Holdren
*Earth and Planetary Sciences 362. Dynamo Theory: Research Seminar 1840
J. Bloxham
*Earth and Planetary Sciences 363. Seismology and Tectonophysics: Geomechanics, Earthquake Source Physics 8664
J. R. Rice
*Earth and Planetary Sciences 364. Geophysics 1438
J. Bloxham
*Earth and Planetary Sciences 365. Geophysics 5632
R. J. O'Connell
*Earth and Planetary Sciences 367. Seismology 4447
A. M. Dziewonski (on leave Spring term)
*Earth and Planetary Sciences 368. Seismology 4932
M. Ishii
*Earth and Planetary Sciences 369. Topics in Active Tectonics 5904
B. J. Meade
*Earth and Planetary Sciences 370. Structural Analysis 9046
J. H. Shaw
*Earth and Planetary Sciences 380. Precambrian Geology 1161
P. F. Hoffman
*Earth and Planetary Sciences 385. Analytical Paleontology 8129
C. R. Marshall
*Earth and Planetary Sciences 387. Paleobotany 6983
A. H. Knoll (on leave Spring term)
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