GEOS 251T(F) The Carbonate Factory

"Carbonate sediments are born, not made." Carbonate depositional systems are a unique interface between biology and geology, where the production and deposition of sediment is mediated largely by organisms. This course will examine the elements of the carbonate factory, look at the evolution, composition, and ecology of carbonate environments, and will investigate the relationships between carbonate systems, ocean chemistry, and climate. The course will be linked to a 1998 winter study course which will visit modern and ancient carbonate environments in the Virgin Islands. Participation in the winter study excursion is not required of tutorial enrollees, but the tutorial is a prerequisite for the winter study course. Evaluation will be based on five written papers, participation, and critical analysis. There are no written exams. Prerequisites: one geosciences course or consent of the instructor. Enrollment limited, with preference to sophomores.

Hour:  COX