EAE1011 · The Earth system: From the core to the atmosphere

Overview

This unit is a core unit for further studies in geosciences, climate and atmospheric science, and environmental earth science. The Earth is a constantly changing complex system involving many physical, chemical, and biological processes both at the surface and below our feet. In this unit, you will be introduced to the science used to understand the Earth system, how it changes over time, and how the Earth system may evolve into the future. We look at the formation and structure of the Earth and its changing environment. We will learn about how fieldwork, practical exercises, simple models, and spatial data help us understand our planet's history and predict its future. We will also study the processes that drive change within our planet and its environmental systems: from the formation of the Earth's core to its crust; to the systems driving and sustaining the planet's living surface; to the forces and processes involved in the formation of mountains and oceans; and our changing atmosphere and climate. At the completion of this unit, you will have a clear understanding of the structure and nature of the Earth, the interaction between the different spheres of the Earth and how the Earth has changed over time

Areas of study: Climate and atmospheric science Earth science Environmental Earth Science Geoscience

Offerings

Assessment

The Handbook does not list a final examination among the assessment items. That is not a guarantee there is none.

Assessment details may change. Please refer to the assessment information in Moodle closer to the start of the teaching period.

Requisites

The Handbook lists no prerequisite, corequisite or prohibition for this unit.

Learning outcomes

1. Define the structure and materials of the whole Earth, including the core, mantle, lithosphere, land surface, oceans and atmosphere and describe how our understanding of these has changed over time.
2. Summarise how the energy, water, biogeochemical, rock, and plate tectonic cycles work, and explain how they act to change the Earth system over time.
3. Synthesise and explain the physical, chemical, and biological processes that have shaped and continue to change the solid Earth, land surface, oceans, and atmosphere.
4. Demonstrate how scientists collect, record, visualise, map, and analyse data in space and time to observe, model and predict deep Earth, climate, and surface processes.

Workload

Total 144 hours over 12 weeks, which includes: • Three hours of own time material including videos and activities; • Two hours of practical sessions; • One hour of workshops and • Five hours of self-directed learning per week. Plus • One full day field trip (8 hours) and asynchronous assessment (4 hours)

Student experience, not official rules. Nothing here changes what the Handbook says.