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GEO164 Earth System Processes (8)

Abstract

In this subject you will learn about  the processes operating in Earth's lithosphere, hydrosphere and atmosphere. Lithosphere topics include the Earth's internal structure, plate tectonics, and structural control of landforms. Hydrosphere topics include the hydrologic cycle, weathering, and fluvial processes. Atmosphere topics include cloud and precipitation formation, synoptic charts, energy balance, global climates, El-Nino Southern Oscillation, and climate change. 

+ Subject Availability Modes and Location

Session 2
OnlineAlbury-Wodonga Campus
On CampusAlbury-Wodonga Campus
On CampusPort Macquarie
Continuing students should consult the SAL for current offering details: GEO164
Where differences exist between the Handbook and the SAL, the SAL should be taken as containing the correct subject offering details.

Subject information

Duration Grading System School:
One sessionHD/FLSchool of Environmental Sciences

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 describe the key principles and concepts associated with hydrological processes
  • be able to describe the key principles of atmospheric processes and climate

Syllabus

The subject will cover the following topics:
  • Internal structure of the earth;
  • Continental drift, plate tectonics;
  • Igneous, sedimentary and metamorphic rock types;
  • Landform development, geomorphological processes;
  • Topographic maps and geological history interpretation;
  • The hydrologic cycle;
  • Fluvial geomorphology;
  • Weathering and erosion;
  • Physical properties of water, air, radiation and heat energy flux;
  • Earth's heat budget, greenhouse effect, seasonality and albedo;
  • Laws of horizontal airflow, convection cells;
  • Atmospheric circulation models, pressure zones, wind belts and global climates
  • Adiabatic processes, atmospheric stability and aerological diagrams
  • Evaporation, atmospheric moisture, cloud and precipitation
  • Air masses, fronts and synoptic meterology
  • Intertropical convergence, monsoons, tropical cyclones
  • El-Nino Southern Oscillation, ozone depletion, enhanced greenhouse effect and environmental consequences of climate change

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The information contained in the 2017 CSU Handbook was accurate at the date of publication: 25 August 2017. The University reserves the right to vary the information at any time without notice.