Earth System Processes

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Abstract

In this subject you will learn about the processes operating in Earth's lithosphere, hydrosphere and atmosphere. You will learn how geological processes have shaped the Earth's landforms and how to interpret geological features and the shape of the landscape to develop a historical perspective on landform development. You will also learn about the relationships between the Earth's hydrological cycle and the atmosphere to be able to demonstrate an understanding of the processes affecting weather on a global and local scale including how to forecast the weather.

Syllabus

Formation of the Solar System;Internal structure of the earth, continental drift and plate tectonics;Igneous, sedimentary and metamorphic rock types;Topographic maps and geological history interpretation;The hydrologic cycle, weathering and erosionPhysical properties of water, air, radiation and heat energy flux;Earth's heat budget, greenhouse effect, seasonality and albedo;Atmospheric circulation models, pressure zones, wind … For more content click the Read More button below.

Formation of the Solar System;
Internal structure of the earth, continental drift and plate tectonics;
Igneous, sedimentary and metamorphic rock types;
Topographic maps and geological history interpretation;
The hydrologic cycle, weathering and erosion
Physical properties of water, air, radiation and heat energy flux;
Earth's heat budget, greenhouse effect, seasonality and albedo;
Atmospheric circulation models, pressure zones, wind belts and global climates;
Adiabatic processes, atmospheric stability and aerological diagrams;
Air masses, fronts and synoptic meteorology;
El-Nino Southern Oscillation, ozone depletion, enhanced greenhouse effect and environmental consequences of climate change.

Learning outcomes

Upon successful completion of this subject, students should:

be able to describe the key principles and concepts associated with geological processes

be able to interpret geological features to develop a historical perspective on landform development

be able to describe the key principles of atmospheric processes and climate

be able to interpret weather maps and forecast the weather

be able to describe the key principles and concepts associated with hydrological processes

be able to read, interpret and use topographic maps

Assumed knowledge

Nil