GEO164 Earth System Processes (8)

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.   

Subject Outlines
Current CSU students can view Subject Outlines for recent sessions. Please note that Subject Outlines and assessment tasks are updated each session.

Availability

Session 2 (60)
On Campus
Albury-Wodonga Campus
Port Macquarie Campus
Online
Albury-Wodonga Campus

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

Grading System

HD/FL

Duration

One session

School

School 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 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

Syllabus

This subject will cover the following topics:
  • 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.

Contact

Current Students

For any enquiries about subject selection or course structure please contact Student Central or ask@csu.edu.au or phone on 1800 275 278.

Prospective Students

For further information about Charles Sturt University, or this course offering, please contact info.csu on 1800 275 278 (free call within Australia) or enquire online.

The information contained in the 2018 CSU Handbook was accurate at the date of publication: August 2018. The University reserves the right to vary the information at any time without notice.

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