MAR 201 Origins & Evolution of the Marine Environment

This course will explore the origins and evolution of the earth (starting at the big bang/universe), the atmosphere, biology, and methodology employed to elucidate these evolutions.  Students will then apply this knowledge to modern physical and geological processes shaping the marine environment, influencing climate change, and creating the interface between the terrestrial and marine environments.  The evolution of the marine environment is an important concept as these primordial processes shaped much of what is currently studied in the oceans.  Having a clear grasp of the influence of geology, physics, and biochemistry gives insight into to modern environmental analogues.  The past is the rosetta stone to the future. 

Credits

4

Prerequisite

MAR 200

Corequisite

MAR 201L

Distribution

(NS) (Category III)

Offered

fall semester