James Cook University Subject Handbook - 2007

EA1110 - Evolution of the Earth

Credit points: 03
Year: 2007
Student Contribution Band: Band 2
Administered by: Discipline of Earth Sciences

4.6 billion years ago the Earth was a newly formed mass of lifeless molten rock. Now it has moving continents, changing oceans and teeming life forms. This subject looks at the how and why Earth has evolved in physical, chemical and biological ways from its origin to the present day. Plate tectonics is one underlying theme; the interaction of processes on, above and below the Earths surface is another. Minerals, rocks and their dynamic interaction within the rock cycle are studied and the sedimentary, magmatic, metamorphic and tectonic processes that lead to the formation and reorganisation of Earth materials. The broadscale evolution of life on Earth is an important part of the subject. Two local field trips facilitate integration within the subject and enhance the practical experience in the Earth Sciences.

Learning Outcomes

Graduate Qualities

Inadmissible
Subject
Combinations:
EA1100 and EA1001

Availabilities

Townsville, Internal, Study Period 1
Census Date 30-Mar-2007
Coordinator: Assoc. Professor Tom Blenkinsop
Lecturers: Professor Nick Oliver, Professor Bob Henderson, Assoc. Professor Tom Blenkinsop.
Contact hours:
  • 36 hours lectures
  • 24 hours practicals
  • 6 hours fieldwork
Assessment:end of semester exam (40%); tests (10%); practical and field exercises (50%).

Cairns, Internal, Study Period 2
Census Date 31-Aug-2007
Coordinator: Mr Peter Whitehead
Lecturers: Mr Peter Whitehead, Dr Paul Nelson.
Contact hours:
  • 26 hours lectures
  • 30 hours practicals
  • 8 hours fieldwork
Assessment:end of semester exam (40%); tests (10%); practical and field exercises (50%).

Note: Minor variations might occur due to the continuous Subject quality improvement process, and in case of minor variation(s) in assessment details, the Subject Outline represents the latest official information.