GEOS 206 Geological Sources of Energy (Same as Environmental Studies 206) (Not offered 2006-2007; to be offered 2007-2008)
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: lecture, three hours per week/discussion, one hour per week/problem
sets/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).
This course satisfies "The Natural World" requirement for the Environmental
Studies concentration.