Though the geologic record is incredibly ancient, it has only been studied intensely since the end of the 19th century. Since then, research in fields such as plate tectonics and climate change, and exploration of the deep sea floor and the inner Earth have vastly increased our understanding of geological processes. This course delves into the five questions listed below in order to understand how our dynamic planet evolved and what processes continue to shape it. In the
process, learners will get to know the museum's Hall of Planet Earth, explore geologic time, and gain an understanding of how scientists study vast Earth systems. How do geologists "read" the rocks? How has the Earth evolved? What causes climate and climate change? Why are there ocean basins, mountains, and continents? Why is the Earth habitable?
*All course information is from the 2015-2016 Catalog.