James Cook University Subject Handbook - 2010

EA1003 - Introductory Earth Science

Credit points: 03
Year: 2010
Student Contribution Band: Band 4
Administered by: Sch of Earth & Environmental 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 how and why Earth has evolved from its origin to the present day. Plate tectonics is an underlying theme, effecting the interaction of energy and matter on, above, and below the Earth's surface. Minerals and rocks and the rock cycle are studied, together with the sedimentary, magmatic, metamorphic and tectonic processes that lead to the formation and reorganisation of Earth materials, including the mineral deposits that are vital to modern societies. The evolution of life, which played an essential role in changing the Earth, is studied through the fossil evidence. A local field trip facilitates integration within the subject, and enhances practical experience in the Earth Sciences.

Learning Outcomes

Graduate Qualities

Inadmissible
Subject
Combinations:
EA1001 EA1100 EA1110

Availabilities

External, Study Period 1
Census Date 25-Mar-2010
Coordinator: Mr Peter Whitehead
Method of Delivery:Printed materials
Assessment:assignments (50%); practical and assignments (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.