The severe economic effects of interruptions in oil supply highlight the dependence of most countries on low-cost supplies of energy. What sources of energy will supply the world economy in the twenty-first century and which countries will control these supplies? This course is an introduction to geological and related sources of energy. Topics covered include: solar energy; the availability and environmental consequences of hydroelectric, wind, and tidal power; biomass energy; energy from nuclear reactions; and geothermal power.

Format: lectures, three hours a week; one hour discussion section, problem sets, and field trips. Evaluation will be based on an hour exam, an 8- to 10-page paper, class participation, and a final exam. No enrollment limit (expected: 30).

DETHIER