This course deals with the most important chemical and physical processes that shape the Earth’s surface.  The earth’s surface is constantly modified by dynamic processes such as mountain building, weathering, erosion, landslides, floods, glaciations, earthquakes, etc.  Throughout the course two Physical Geography disciplines will be introduced: Hydrology (science of water) and Geomorphology (science of landscapes).  The first part of the class will be devoted to basic geologic processes such as plate tectonics, volcanism, and earthquakes.  The second part of the course will deal with hydrologic and geomorphic processes (e.g. weathering, soil erosion, landslides, flooding, and glaciations) that modified the land surface. Aspects of local interest will be highlighted but global concerns will also be addressed.

This is a natural science course, and graphs and calculations will be used to help understand the topics. The mathematics involved is not above high school algebra level.

I expect from you commitment and respect.  This means that attendance is mandatory to all lectures and laboratories.  Necessary materials should be read before coming to class (see lecture schedule below).  Readings from the textbook and reserve materials will clarify lecture material.  We cover a lot of material in each class, so missing a class will put you behind and will likely result in a much lower grade than you are otherwise capable of. DON’T GET BEHIND.