Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences : Harvard University

Earth and Planetary Sciences 5. Introduction to Environmental Science: Atmosphere, Ocean, and Biosphere
Catalog Number: 2207
Michael B. McElroy
Half course (fall term). M., W., 1–2:30. EXAM GROUP: 6, 7
An introduction to the scientific basis for current concerns regarding possible changes in the global environment. Issues addressed include climate; depletion of stratospheric ozone; regional air pollution; acid rain; disturbance of biogeochemical cycles for life-essential elements C, N, P, and S.

Earth and Planetary Sciences 6. Introduction to Environmental Science: The Solid Earth
Catalog Number: 2694
Marcus Van Baalen and members of the Department
Half course (spring term). Tu., Th., 11:30–1:00; laboratories and section require one afternoon per week. EXAM GROUP: 13, 14
An introduction to geologic processes, with emphasis on environmental problems and hazards. Topics include Earth history, Earth materials, plate tectonics, and natural disasters: earthquakes; volcanoes; landslides; and floods. Introduction to scientific uncertainty, methods of risk assessment and policy tradeoffs. Radon, asbestos and other hazardous materials including nuclear waste. Short- and long-term impact of human activity on the geological environment e.g. ground water contamination, the lifetime of dams and land subsidence. The development of scientific topics will form the bases for discussion of methods of risk reduction through policy and legislation.
Note: EPS 6 may not be counted for a degree in addition to EPS 7.

Earth and Planetary Sciences 7. Introduction to Geological Sciences
Catalog Number: 0918
Adam M. Dziewonski and Marcus Van Baalen
Half course (fall term). M., W., F., at 10; three hours of laboratory work each week and two day-long field trips on separate weekends required. EXAM GROUP: 3
An introduction to Earth science designed for concentrators in geological, environmental, and geophysical sciences. Origin of the earth, its age and its evolution with an emphasis on the processes that shaped our planet. The theory of plate tectonics is used as a broad framework to explain the occurrence and distribution of earthquakes, volcanoes and mountains, and to explore the history of the earth’s surface. Labs and the weekend field trip familiarize students with rock types, geological features, and maps, and expose them to how geologists infer processes from the rock record.
Note: Also appropriate for non-EPS concentrators who desire a comprehensive introduction to Earth science.

Earth and Planetary Sciences 8. History of the Earth
Catalog Number: 0166
Paul F. Hoffman
Half course (spring term). M., W., F., at 10; two hours of laboratory per week and two one-day field trips. EXAM GROUP: 3
This course examines the major stages and critical events in the history of the earth with emphasis on the interactions between global tectonics, ocean-atmosphere processes (climate), and biological evolution. We will consider all time scales, from the formation of the earth and other planets, to catastrophic events that drove mass extinctions, to the most recent period of human interaction with the environment. Lectures will focus not only on descriptions of critical intervals, but also on what evidence exists to support these descriptions. Laboratories introduce methods of investigation and analysis of the geological record.
Note: : This is one of three required introductory courses for EPS concentrators, along with EPS 5 and EPS 7.
Prerequisite: Secondary-school courses in science (physics, chemistry, biology) and calculus.

[Earth and Planetary Sciences 30. Environmental Microbiology]
Catalog Number: 4935
Ralph Mitchell
Half course (Fall term). Hours to be arranged.
Microbial processes in natural habitats, including biogeochemical cycles and metal transformations. Evolution of microorganisms and the development of survival strategies are discussed. Includes discussions of microbial processes in specific habitats including fresh waters, marine, and soil. Emphasis is placed on the effects of environmental deterioration and the responses of the microbial community.
Note: Expected to be given in 2002–03.
Prerequisite: An introductory biology course, either at the high school or college level.

*Earth and Planetary Sciences 74. Field Geology
Catalog Number: 7239
Paul F. Hoffman
Half course (fall term). Hours to be arranged. EXAM GROUP: 3
Methods of observation and documentation of the Earth’s rock record. Approximately four weeks of field observation are followed by the preparation of a detailed geologic report.
Note: Students must notify EPS Head Tutor and instructors of intention to enroll by May 1 of the preceding spring term.
Prerequisite: EPS 7, 8, 50 or 171, are recommended, or permission of instructor.

*Earth and Planetary Sciences 91r. Supervised Reading and Research
Catalog Number: 1462
Richard J. O’Connell and members of the Department
Half course (fall term; repeated spring term). Hours to be arranged.
Note: Intended for junior or senior concentrators in Earth and Planetary Sciences; open to sophomore concentrators only under exceptional circumstances. Permission of the faculty member under whom the student wants to work and of the Head Tutor is required for enrollment. May be counted for concentration only with the special permission of the Head Tutor.

*Earth and Planetary Sciences 99. Tutorial — Senior Year
Catalog Number: 7120
Richard J. O’Connell and members of the Department
Full course Hours to be arranged.
Note: Senior honors candidates must take at least one term of this course (fall or spring) if writing a thesis. Signature of the Head Tutor required for enrollment.

[Earth and Planetary Sciences 106. Introduction to Planetary Physics]
Catalog Number: 1021
Jeremy Bloxham
Half course (spring term). Hours to be arranged.
An examination of the fundamental physical processes governing the structure and evolution of planets, and the observations used to constrain models of these processes. Concentrated on the study of Earth. Topics include gravity, rotation, and solar system dynamics; heat transfer and convection; magnetic field generation; seismology and structure of Earth’s interior.
Note: Expected to be given in 2002–03.
Prerequisite: Physics 11 or 15, and Applied Mathematics 21 or Mathematics 21, or equivalents.

Earth and Planetary Sciences 107. Environmental Geochemistry
Catalog Number: 1242
Ann Pearson and Daniel P. Schrag
Half course (fall term). Tu., Th., 10–11:30. EXAM GROUP: 12, 13
This course offers an overview of low-temperature geochemistry through the treatment of a selection of geochemical issues of environmental significance. Each unit will place geochemical topics in the context of a broader geological perspective with particular emphasis on chemical principles. Students from all concentrations are welcome.
Note: Given in alternate years.
Prerequisite: A course in college-level chemistry or permission from the instructor.

Earth and Planetary Sciences 108. Environmental Geomechanics
Catalog Number: 6095
James R. Rice
Half course (fall term). Tu., Th., 10–11:30. EXAM GROUP: 12, 13
Principles of solid and fluid mechanics are developed to understand processes in environmental geology and geophysics. Topics: Geomorphology and sedimentation. Hydrology, groundwater flows, solute transport, contaminant remediation. Poroelasiticity, aquifer dynamics, consolidation and subsidence. Rock and soil strength; safety of dams, levees and landfills; landslides, debris flows. Faulting and earthquake waves, site response, liquefaction. Water waves, tsunamis, open channel flows, hydraulic jumps; erosion and sediment transport.
Note: Expected to be omitted in 2002–03. Given in alternate years. Students who wish to have coverage of the same material at a more advanced level should take the course Engineering Sciences 265.
Prerequisite: Mathematics or Applied Mathematics 21 and a calculus-based introduction to physics. Also suggested: Earth and Planetary Sciences 6 or 7.

[Earth and Planetary Sciences 109. Earth Resources and the Environment]
Catalog Number: 2218
John H. Shaw
Half course (spring term). Hours to be arranged.
The course provides an overview of the earth’s energy and material resources. Following an introduction to hydrocarbons (oil, natural gas, and coal), nuclear fuels, and other economically important ores, the course will emphasize methods used to exploit these resources and the environmental impacts of these operations. Topics include: Coal and acid rain; petroleum, photochemical smog, and oil spills; nuclear power and radioactive hazards; alternative energies (solar, hydroelectric, tidal, geothermal power); metals and mining. Labs will emphasize geologic and geophysical methods for discovering and exploiting resources, including satellite remote sensing and seismic reflection techniques, and environmental remediation approaches.
Note: Expected to be given in 2002–03. Given in alternate years.
Prerequisite: EPS 6, 7, or 8, or permission of the instructor.

[Earth and Planetary Sciences 131. Introduction to Physical Oceanography]
Catalog Number: 2249
Allan R. Robinson
Half course (spring term). Hours to be arranged.
Elements of the physics and dynamics of the world’s oceans. The observational basis and the fundamental concepts and models required for describing and understanding the range of phenomena that occur on many time and space scales. Water masses, circulation, currents, eddies, waves, microstructure, and turbulence. The implication of physical oceanography for interdisciplinary research, including climate and biogeochemical cycles and ecosystems.
Note: Expected to be given in 2002–03.
Prerequisite: Mathematics 21 or Applied Mathematics 21, Physics 11 or 15, or permission of instructor.

Earth and Planetary Sciences 132. Introduction to Meteorology
Catalog Number: 8495
Brian F. Farrell
Half course (fall term). Tu., Th., 1–2:30. EXAM GROUP: 15, 16
Physical concepts necessary to understand atmospheric structure and motion. Phenomena studied include the formation of clouds and precipitation, solar and terrestrial radiation, dynamical balance of the large-scale wind, and the origin of cyclones. Concepts developed for understanding today’s atmosphere are applied to understanding the record of past climate change and the prospects for climate change in the future.
Prerequisite: Mathematics 21 or Applied Mathematics 21, Physics 11 or 15, or permission of instructor.

Earth and Planetary Sciences 133. Introduction to Atmospheric Chemistry
Catalog Number: 7731
Daniel J. Jacob
Half course (spring term). Tu., Th., 1–2:30. EXAM GROUP: 15
A fundamental introduction to the physical and chemical processes determining the composition of the atmosphere and its implications for climate, ecosystems, and human welfare. Origin of the atmosphere. Nitrogen, oxygen, carbon, sulfur cycles. Climate and the greenhouse effect. Atmospheric transport and turbulence. Stratospheric ozone. Oxidizing power of the atmosphere. Regional air pollution: aerosols, smog, acid rain.
Prerequisite: Physics 1, Chemistry 10 or 7, and Mathematics 1.

Earth and Planetary Sciences 140. Geochemical Thermodynamics
Catalog Number: 1960
Stein B. Jacobsen
Half course (fall term). Tu., Th., 1–2:30. EXAM GROUP: 15, 16
Application of equilibrium thermodynamics to problems in Earth and planetary sciences. The laws of thermodynamics. Thermodynamic functions. Conditions for thermodynamic equalibrium and spontaneous transformations. Systems of variable chemical composition. Partial molar quantities. Selection of components and the Gibbs phase rule. Chemography and petrogenetic grids. Conditions for heterogeneous and homogeneous equilibrium. Equilibrium constants. Fugacities and activities. Entropy of mixing in ideal solid solutions. Calculation of binary and ternary phase diagrams. Conditions for stability. Excess functions. Mixed volatile equilibria. Thermodynamics of aqueous solutions. Examples and problems drawn primarily from igneous and metamorphic petrology and geochemistry.
Note: Expected to be omitted in 2002–03. Given in alternate years.
Prerequisite: Chemistry 10 or equivalent; Mathematics 21a or Applied Mathematics 21a (may be taken concurrently).

[Earth and Planetary Sciences 141. Isotope and Trace Element Geochemistry and Geochronology]
Catalog Number: 7724
Stein B. Jacobsen
Half course (fall term). Hours to be arranged.
Application of isotope geochemistry to the problems in Earth and planetary sciences. The element and isotope distribution in the Earth and the Solar System. Closed system radioactive decay, isotope fractionation, mass balance, mixing and dilution. Radiogenic isotopes. Application of Rb-Sr, Sm-Nd, U-Th-Pb, Re-Os and K-Ar isotope systems for geochronology and as tracers for geological processes. Noble gas geochemistry. Extinct nuclides. Cosmogenic nuclides. U-series nuclides and their application to Quaternary chronology. Planetary isotopic evolution. Stable isotope geochemistry. Application of H, C, N, O and S isotopes as tracers of geochemical and biogeochemical processes.
Note: Expected to be given in 2002–03. Given in alternate years.
Prerequisite: Chemistry 10 or equivalent; EPS 6 or 7 or equivalent (recommended).

Earth and Planetary Sciences 150. (formerly Earth and Planetary Sciences 50). Planetary Materials and Geochemistry
Catalog Number: 4726
Stein B. Jacobsen
Half course (spring term). M., W., 1–2:30, plus three hours per week of laboratory. EXAM GROUP: 6, 7
An introduction to rocks and minerals—the materials of the solid Earth and other solar system bodies. Fundamental principles of mineral structures, phase equilibrium, and the processes of formation of igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks. Construction and interpretation of phase diagrams, models for melt generation and crystallization, and the metamorphic facies concept and thermal models of metamorphism. Mineralogy, composition, and origin of meteorites and lunar rock samples. Applications to understanding the origin and evolution of planetary crusts and mantles. Laboratory emphasizes sample identification, optical mineralogy. x-ray diffraction, electron microprobe and mass spectometer methods.
Prerequisite: EBS 6 or 7 or Science A-24, and Chemistry 5 or Chemistry 10, or permission of instructor.

[Earth and Planetary Sciences 161. (formerly Earth and Planetary Sciences 61). Global Tectonics]
Catalog Number: 1854
Richard J. O’Connell
Half course (fall term). Hours to be arranged.
Overview of geophysical and geological observations and phenomena related to large-scale tectonic processes. Plate tectonics; marine magnetic and paleomagnetic measurements; heat flow and thermal evolution of oceanic plates; earthquakes and volcanoes at plate boundaries. The rigid and nonrigid behavior of lithospheric plates; rates of crustal deformation; earthquakes within continents; mountain building and the support and evolution of mountain belts.
Note: Expected to be given in 2002–03.
Prerequisite: One basic earth science course (e.g., EPS 7 or Science A-24) or permission of instructor. Recommended: Applied Mathematics or Mathematics 21, Physics 11a or 15a.

Earth and Planetary Sciences 166. Introduction to Seismology
Catalog Number: 1540
Adam M. Dziewonski
Half course (fall term). M., W., 1–2:30. EXAM GROUP: 6, 7
Causes, occurrence, and properties of earthquakes. Earthquakes and tectonics, seismic risk, volcanic eruptions. Propagation of seismic waves, physical properties of the Earth’s crust, core, and mantle. Seismographs and interpretation of recordings of earthquakes. Some aspects of the required mathematical methods (e.g., Fourier transform) are explained.
Note: Expected to be omitted in 2002–03. Given in alternate years.
Prerequisite: Mathematics 21a and 21b or Applied Mathematics 21a and 21b (may be taken concurrently).

[Earth and Planetary Sciences 167. Applied Geophysics]
Catalog Number: 5143
Adam M. Dziewonski
Half course (spring term). Hours to be arranged.
Geophysical methods used to prospect for oil and minerals and to address environmental problems such as ground water level, radioactive waste storage, estimation of seismic risk. Theory, instrumentation and interpretation of seismic, gravity, electrical and electromagnetic methods.
Note: Expected to be given in 2002–03. Given in alternate years.
Prerequisite: Mathematics 21a and 21b or Applied Mathematics 21a and 21b. Some of the required mathematical tools are explained during the course.

Earth and Planetary Sciences 171. (formerly Earth and Planetary Sciences 71). Structural Geology and Tectonics
Catalog Number: 0319
John H. Shaw
Half course (spring term). Tu., Th., 10–11:30; Labs: to be arranged; 2 hours/week and one 3 day field trip. EXAM GROUP: 12, 13
An introduction to deformation of Earth materials, including mountain building and plate tectonics, faulting and earthquakes, folding, and ductile deformation. Forces acting on rocks and resultant strains will be examined for a variety of pressure and temperature conditions. Rock fracture and faulting will be studied through numerical approaches, analog experiments, geologic maps, and cross sections. Ductile deformation mechanisms will be examined through microscopic investigation of rock fabrics. Labs will introduce modern applications of structural geology to the energy and environmental industries and for assessing earthquake hazards by using balanced cross sections, seismic reflection data, and satellite imagery.
Note: Expected to be omitted in 2002–03. Given in alternate years.
Prerequisite: EPS 6, 7, or 8, or permission of the instructor.

[Earth and Planetary Sciences 180. Sedimentary Basins]
Catalog Number: 6992
Paul F. Hoffman
Half course (spring term). Hours to be arranged.
Formation and evolution of sedimentary basins on continental crust (including passive margins, fore-arc and back-arc basins, rift systems and strike-slip basins, foreland and cratonic basins). Case studies of several examples of each basin type will be examined, with emphasis on stratigraphic architecture and relation to crustal deformation.
Note: Expected to be given in 2002–03.
Prerequisite: EPS7 or EPS8 or permission of the instructor.

[Earth and Planetary Sciences 181. Invertebrate Paleontology]
Catalog Number: 5162
Andrew H. Knoll and Charles R. Marshall
Half course (spring term). Hours to be arranged.
Principles of paleontology and a survey of the major invertebrate taxa. An emphasis on the nature and completeness of the fossil record, taphonomy, systematics, functional and theoretical morphology. Discussion of the importance of fossils for biostratigraphy, paleoecology, and evolutionary theory. Hierarchical views of evolutionary processes: micro- and macroevolution, background and mass extinctions.
Note: Expected to be given in 2002–03.
Prerequisite: Either Science B-16, Biological Sciences 51 (formerly Biological Sciences 2), or permission of instructor.

Anthropology 166. Archaeological Science

Biology 107. Evolution of Plant Life in Geologic Time

Biology 118. Biological Oceanography

Biology 208. Issues in Paleobiology: Seminar

Engineering Sciences 123. Introduction to Fluid Mechanics

[Engineering Sciences 162. Hydrology]

Engineering Sciences 165. Introduction to Environmental Engineering

Engineering Sciences 167. Environmental Assessment

Engineering Sciences 168. Aquatic Chemistry

Earth and Planetary Sciences 200. Atmospheric Chemistry and Physics
Catalog Number: 2675
Daniel J. Jacob
Half course (fall term). Tu., Th., 10–11:30. EXAM GROUP: 12, 13
A comprehensive treatment of the chemistry and physics of the atmosphere. Introduction to thermodynamics, kinetics and photochemistry in the atmosphere, with applications to stratospheric and tropospheric chemistry and pollution. Includes fundamentals of radiative transfer and simple models of the influence of trace gases on the earth’s climate.
Note: Students specializing in this area are expected to take EPS 200 and 236. These courses may serve as an introduction to atmospheric and oceanic processes for other students with strong preparation.
Prerequisite: Applied Mathematics 105b (may be taken concurrently), Physics 11 or 15, and Chemistry 10, or more advanced courses; or permission of the instructors.

[Earth and Planetary Sciences 201. Physics of the Earth’s Interior]
Catalog Number: 4004
Richard J. O’Connell
Half course (fall term). Hours to be arranged.
Comprehensive review of the physics of Earth’s interior. Deals primarily with the solid behavior of the Earth. Topics include: continuum mechanics; elastic and viscous materials; physics of solids; thermodynamics; solid body rotational dynamics; and potential theory. Applications include: seismic waves and the structure and state of the Earth’s interior; elastic and viscous deformation of the mantle and lithosphere; gravity field; Earth rotation and dynamics; mantle convection and heat transport.
Note: Expected to be given in 2002–03. Expected to be omitted in 2003–04.
Prerequisite: Applied Mathematics 105a and 105b, Physics 15 or equivalent. Preparation should be discussed with the instructor.

[Earth and Planetary Sciences 202. Introduction to the Dynamics of Atmospheres and Oceans]
Catalog Number: 2624
Allan R. Robinson
Half course (fall term). Hours to be arranged.
Conceptual, dynamical and observational bases of the geophysical fluid dynamics of the atmosphere and the ocean. Waves, instabilities and turbulence in notating stratified fluids. Potential vorticity, quasigeostrophic dynamics, weather and eddies. The general circulations of the atmosphere, the ocean and the coupled air-sea climate system.
Note: Expected to be given in 2002–03.
Prerequisite: Applied Mathematics 105b, Physics 11 or 15, or equivalent.

[Earth and Planetary Sciences 205. Inverse Theory and Time Series Analysis]
Catalog Number: 4426
Adam M. Dziewonski
Half course (fall term). Hours to be arranged.
Techniques of data analysis and reduction in the Earth sciences. Topics: statistical parameter estimation; Backus-Gilbert linear inference; generalized inversion; stochastic inversion; Bayesian inference and confidence set inference; Fourier series and transforms, discrete Fourier transforms; digital filter design; multichannel filtration.
Note: Expected to be given in 2002–03.
Prerequisite: Applied Mathematics 105a,b.

Earth and Planetary Sciences 206. Space Geodesy for Earth Scientists
Catalog Number: 8218
James L. Davis
Half course (spring term). Hours to be arranged. EXAM GROUP: 17, 18
Space geodesy for the study of the solid Earth, the atmosphere, and the ocean. The determination of geophysical signals from space geodetic observables. Topics include the Global Positioning System, very long baseline interferometry, satellite-laser ranging, the TOPEX/POSEIDON altimeter, interferometric SAR, and several future space missions.
Note: Given in alternate years.

*Earth and Planetary Sciences 207r. Geochemical Oceanography
Catalog Number: 1602
Daniel P. Schrag
Half course (fall term). Hours to be arranged.
Topics in low-temperature geochemistry, oceanography, and climatology will be discussed. Students will read and present journal articles on relevant topics, and will rotate responsibility for leading discussions.
Note: Given in alternate years.

Earth and Planetary Sciences 221. Topics in Environmental Microbiology
Catalog Number: 7183
Ralph Mitchell
Half course (fall term). Hours to be arranged.
Discussion of current research on environmental microbiology. Bioremediation of hazardous chemicals. New approaches to pest control. Ecological disturbances and emergent new diseases. The fate of genetically engineered microorganisms. Indicators of water-borne disease.
Prerequisite: An introductory biology course.

[*Earth and Planetary Sciences 231. Physical and Dynamical Oceanography]
Catalog Number: 6492
Allan R. Robinson
Half course (spring term). Hours to be arranged.
Theory and observation of the general ocean circulation and its variabilities; the fields of temperature, salinity, and density of the ocean; relationship to intermediate and small scale transient and turbulent processes. Topics in interdisciplinary dynamics of the sea.
Note: Expected to be given in 2002–03.
Prerequisite: Applied Mathematics 105b or permission of instructor; should ordinarily be taken after EPS 202.

Earth and Planetary Sciences 232. Dynamic Meteorology
Catalog Number: 5344
Brian F. Farrell
Half course (spring term). Tu., Th., 2:30–4. EXAM GROUP: 16, 17
The atmosphere understood as a fluid dynamical system. Observations of atmospheric motions on a wide range of scales and the relation of these motions to weather and climate. Applications of the equations governing atmospheric dynamics and thermodynamics to specific phenomena including cyclogenesis, stationary waves, and the formation of fronts.
Prerequisite: Applied Mathematics 105b or permission of instructor.

Earth and Planetary Sciences 236. Atmospheric Physics
Catalog Number: 7250
Steven C. Wofsy
Half course (spring term). M., W., 1–2:30. EXAM GROUP: 6, 7
A comprehensive treatment of the chemical cycles of gases and aerosols containing carbon, hydrogen, nitrogen, oxygen, and sulfur on the earth. Biologican and geochemical mechanisms regulating global processes will e discussed in the framework of observations of the earth system. Global atmospheric change in response to human and natural influences and the origin and evolution of atmospheric gases will be examined.
Note: Students specializing in this area are expected to take EPS 200 and 236. These courses may serve as an introduction to atmospheric and oceanic processes for other students with strong preparation.
Prerequisite: Applied Mathematics 105b (may be taken concurrently), Physics 11 or 15, and Chemistry 10, or more advanced courses; or permission of the instructors.

Earth and Planetary Sciences 238. Spectroscopy and Radiative Transfer of Atmospheres
Catalog Number: 1891
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Half course (spring term). Tu., Th., 1–2:30. EXAM GROUP: 15, 16
Absorption, emission, and scattering, emphasizing Earth’s atmosphere. Atmospheric spectroscopic properties for various measurement geometries. Quantitative spectroscopy and atmospheric structure are reviewed. Radiative transfer modeling and simulation and interpretation of atmospheric spectra from microwave through ultraviolet.
Prerequisite: Ability to program in a high-level computer language (may be learned in parallel with the permission of the instructor).

[Earth and Planetary Sciences 240. Geochemical Kinetics]
Catalog Number: 0187
Stein B. Jacobsen
Half course (spring term). Hours to be arranged.
Irreversible thermodynamics, heat flow and diffusion equations and K-U-Th geochemistry. Mass transfer between reservoirs; mantle and crustal evolution, geochemical cycles, determination of temperature-time-pressure histories of rocks from radiogenic isotope systems, geothermometers and geobarometers. Geochemical studies of hydrothermal systems, metasomatism, and diagenesis.
Note: Expected to be given in 2002–03. Applied Mathematics 105a,b are recommended. Given in alternate years.
Prerequisite: EPS 140, Mathematics 21a,b or Applied Mathematics 21a, b.

Earth and Planetary Sciences 241. Isotope Geochemistry and the Evolution of the Earth’s Interior
Catalog Number: 1680
Stein B. Jacobsen
Half course (spring term). Hours to be arranged.
Cosmic abundances, meteorites, bulk compositions of the Earth’s crust, mantle, and core. Application of radiogenic and stable isotopes to study the process of formation and evolution of the Earth’s crust, mantle and core. Geochemical cycles of elements in the solid earth, residence times, element partition rules and mixing processes.
Prerequisite: Expected to be omitted in 2002–03. Given in alternate years.

[Earth and Planetary Sciences 242. Biogeochemistry of Light Stable Isotopes]
Catalog Number: 8808
Daniel P. Schrag
Half course (fall term). Hours to be arranged.
Introduction to the theory and methodology of stable isotope biogeochemistry. Topics include isotope ratio mass spectrometry, biological fractionation of carbon and nitrogen isotopes, distribution of isotopes in terrestrial and marine ecosystems, applications to climate reconstruction, and multiple stable isotope techniques. Laboratory sessions provide an introduction to analytical methods and include an independent research project.
Note: Expected to be given in 2002–03. Given in alternate years. Enrollment: Limited to 10.

[Earth and Planetary Sciences 260. Topics in Geophysics: The Core-Mantle Boundary]
Catalog Number: 2908
Jeremy Bloxham and Richard J. O’Connell
Half course (spring term). Hours to be arranged.
The course will address the physics and chemistry of the core-mantle boundary region. Topics will include the cooling of the core by the mantle and the thermal and chemical evolution of the core: core-mantle interactions, including the exchange of angular momentum between the core and the nature of D", including constraints on topography on the core-mantle boundary, anisotropy, and low velocity zones.
Note: Expected to be given in 2002–03. This course will be given simultaneously with a research seminar in the Department of Earth, Atmospheric and Planetary Sciences at MIT and will involve participants from both institutions.

[Earth and Planetary Sciences 263. Earthquake Source Processes]
Catalog Number: 0542
James R. Rice
Half course (fall term). Hours to be arranged.
Elastic radiation from faults in relation to source dynamics. Quantification of earthquakes; source parameters and scaling laws. Dynamic fracture theory. Friction laws; effective stress. State of stress in Earth’s crust. Strength and rheology of faults. Earthquake instability and rupture propagnation models. Spatio-temporal complexity of seismic response. Seismotectonics. Stressing and sesismicity in the earthquake cycle. Seismicity rate changes and hazard modification due to nearby earthquakes.
Note: Expected to be given in 2002–03.
Prerequisite: EPS 166 or equivalent and further advanced study at the 200 level in seismology or solid mechanics.

Earth and Planetary Sciences 264r. Topics in Planetary Magnetism
Catalog Number: 1429
Jeremy Bloxham
Half course (fall term). Hours to be arranged. EXAM GROUP: 7, 8, 9
Theoretical and observational aspects of planetary magnetism, focused on Earth’s magnetic field. Topics: observations of Earth’s and other planets’ magnetic fields and field mapping at core boundary; determination of core radius and fluid flow within core; core structure and dynamics; core energetics; rotation and convection; core magnetohydrodynamics and magnetic field generation; kinematic and dynamic dynamo theory.
Prerequisite: Applied Mathematics 105a,b, Physics 153 or equivalent, or permission of instructor.

Earth and Planetary Sciences 265r. Topics in Geodynamics
Catalog Number: 0816
Richard J. O’Connell
Half course (fall term). Tu., Th., 2:30–4. EXAM GROUP: 16, 17
Topics in the dynamics of processes in the Earth’s interior and the physical properties of the Earth’s interior, including: thermal convection and flow in the mantle, heat transport, rheology of the mantle, plate motions, plate deformation, physical properties of rocks and minerals.

Earth and Planetary Sciences 266r. Topics in Seismology: Earth Structure
Catalog Number: 2895
Adam M. Dziewonski
Half course (spring term). Hours to be arranged.
Topics in seismology related to investigation of the elastic and anelastic structure of the deep interior of the Earth using normal modes, surface waves, and body waves. Theory, observation, and interpretation. Emphasis on 3-D seismic tomography. Topics vary from year to year.
Prerequisite: EPS 166, Applied Mathematics 105a,b, or equivalent.

[Earth and Planetary Sciences 267. Global Seismology]
Catalog Number: 4091
Adam M. Dziewonski and Göran Ekström
Half course (spring term). Hours to be arranged.
Treats the theory and observational techniques used in the study of low-frequency seismic waves in the Earth. Free oscillations of a spherical Earth; effects of rotation, asphericity and heterogeneity. Mode splitting and coupling. Surface and body waves: dispersion attenuation, refraction and reflection. Seismic source representation and retrieval; centroid-moment tensor (CMT) analysis.
Note: Expected to be given in 2002–03. Given in alternate years.
Prerequisite: Applied math 105a, b or EPS 166 or equivalent preparation.

Earth and Planetary Sciences 268r. Topics in Seismology: Earthquakes
Catalog Number: 3021
Göran Ekström
Half course (spring term). Hours to be arranged.
Topics in seismology related to the earthquake source process. Focuses on observational and computational methods for determining earthquake parameters from seismic data. Kinematic and dynamic models of the earthquake source and their parameterization; modeling of seismic waveforms; inverse methods for parameter estimation. Topics vary from year to year.
Note: Expected to be omitted in 2002–03. Given in alternate years.
Prerequisite: EPS 166, or equivalent.

[Earth and Planetary Sciences 270r. (formerly Earth and Planetary Sciences 270). Structural Interpretation of Seismic Data]
Catalog Number: 8230
John H. Shaw
Half course (fall term). Hours to be arranged.
Methods of interpreting complex geologic structures imaged in 2 and 3-dimensional seismic reflection data. Emphasis is placed on defining regional structural styles in extensional basins, fold-and-thrust belts, and strike-slip systems. Methods of integrated surface geology, well logs, and remote sensing data into structural interpretation will be described. Students will work on independent projects analyzing seismic grids and 3D volumes.
Note: Expected to be given in 2002–03. Given in alternate years.
Prerequisite: EPS 71 or equivalent.

Earth and Planetary Sciences 271r. (formerly Earth and Planetary Sciences 271). Current Topics in Earth and Planetary Sciences
Catalog Number: 2515
Paul F. Hoffman
Half course (spring term). Hours to be arranged.
Critical discussion of recent articles in any aspect of earth and planetary science. Articles from current serials and monographs will be selected on the basis of general interest and potential importance. Instructor will select articles and provide contextual information. Students will be expected to read and participate in discussion of 3-4 articles per week. One goal of the course is to foster breadth; another is to cultivate the habit of reading the current literature.
Prerequisite: Two of EPS 5, EPS 7, EPS 8, or permission of the instructor.

Earth and Planetary Sciences 272r. Topics in Structural Geology
Catalog Number: 1546
John H. Shaw
Half course (fall term). Hours to be arranged. EXAM GROUP: 13
Seminar course investigating recent advances in structural geology and exploration geophysics with applications in earthquake science and the petroleum industry. Specific topics vary from year to year.
Note: Expected to be omitted in 2002–03. Given in aletrnate years.
Prerequisite: EPS 171 or equivalant. Intended for graduate and advanced undergraduate students involved in structural geology search.

[Earth and Planetary Sciences 281r. (formerly Earth and Planetary Sciences 281). Snowball Earth Phenomena]
Catalog Number: 2474
Paul F. Hoffman and Daniel P. Schrag
Half course (fall term). Hours to be arranged.
Theory and observations pertaining to the snowball earth hypothesis, including climate models, paleomagnetic constraints, sedimentological phenomena, geochemical perturbations, isotopic anomalies, and biological implications. Snowball events in Earth history and their spatial and temporal variability. Strengths and weaknesses of existing explanations, alternative hypotheses, and testable predictions. Evolution of the hypothesis and reactions to it, as an example of how scientists respond to radical ideas.
Note: Expected to be given in 2002–03.
Prerequisite: One basic earth science course (e.g., EPS5, EPS6, EPS7, EPS8, Science A-24, Science A-30, Science A-37, Science B-16, Science B-34) or permission of the instructors.

[Earth and Planetary Sciences 285r. Analytical Paleontology]
Catalog Number: 2132
Charles R. Marshall
Half course (fall term). Hours to be arranged.
A general treatment of different approaches to designing and testing quantitative models in paleobiology. Topics include, but will not be restricted to: determining times of origin and extinction; dissecting diversity dynamics; assessing the absolute completeness of the fossil record; stratigraphy and phylogeny reconstruction.
Note: Expected to be given in 2002–03.

[*Earth and Planetary Sciences 232. Dynamic Meteorology]
Catalog Number: 2802
Brian F. Farrell 7628

[*Earth and Planetary Sciences 330. Kinetics and Photochemistry of Planetary Atmospheres]
Catalog Number: 3810
James G. Anderson 6057 (on leave 2001-02)

[*Earth and Planetary Sciences 331. Atmospheric Chemistry]
Catalog Number: 4038
Daniel J. Jacob 1781

[*Earth and Planetary Sciences 333. Atmospheric Chemistry: Research Seminar]
Catalog Number: 1510
Daniel J. Jacob 1781 and Members of the Department
Half course (fall term; repeated spring term). F., at 12.

[*Earth and Planetary Sciences 334. Atmospheric Physics and Chemistry]
Catalog Number: 4886
Michael B. McElroy 2462

[*Earth and Planetary Sciences 335. Physical and Dynamical Oceanography]
Catalog Number: 3095
Allan R. Robinson 2133 (on leave 2001-02)

[*Earth and Planetary Sciences 337. Biological Oceanography]
Catalog Number: 5704
James J. McCarthy 4343 (on leave fall term)

[*Earth and Planetary Sciences 338. Atmospheric Chemistry]
Catalog Number: 7596
Steven C. Wofsy 4396

[*Earth and Planetary Sciences 340. Topics in Isotope Geochemistry: Research Seminar]
Catalog Number: 2881
Stein B. Jacobsen 7212

[*Earth and Planetary Sciences 341. Isotope Geochemistry]
Catalog Number: 7103
Stein B. Jacobsen 7212

[*Earth and Planetary Sciences 344. Topics in Stable Isotope Geochemistry and Geochemical Oceanography]
Catalog Number: 6291
Daniel P. Schrag 3054 (on leave spring term)

[*Earth and Planetary Sciences 362. Dynamo Theory: Research Seminar]
Catalog Number: 1840
Jeremy Bloxham 2047

[*Earth and Planetary Sciences 363. Tectonophysics, Geomechanics, Earthquake Source Physics]
Catalog Number: 8664
James R. Rice 7270

[*Earth and Planetary Sciences 364. Geophysics]
Catalog Number: 1438
Jeremy Bloxham 2047

[*Earth and Planetary Sciences 365. Geophysics]
Catalog Number: 5632
Richard J. O’Connell 3642

[*Earth and Planetary Sciences 367. Seismology]
Catalog Number: 4447
Adam M. Dziewonski 3641

[*Earth and Planetary Sciences 368. Seismology]
Catalog Number: 4932
Göran Ekström 2682

[*Earth and Planetary Sciences 370. Structural Analysis]
Catalog Number: 9046
John H. Shaw 3699

[*Earth and Planetary Sciences 380. Precambrian Geology]
Catalog Number: 1161
Paul F. Hoffman 1507

[*Earth and Planetary Sciences 383. Paleobiology]
Catalog Number: 7946
Stephen J. Gould 1707

[*Earth and Planetary Sciences 385. Analytical Paleontology]
Catalog Number: 8129
Charles R. Marshall 2823

[*Earth and Planetary Sciences 387. Paleobotany]
Catalog Number: 6983
Andrew H. Knoll 7425