Natural resources

Overview of oceanography for those interested in Earth system science. Focus is on physical, chemical, and biological processes that drive biogeochemical cycling in the oceans. Coastal systems also reviewed, with emphasis on California waters. Corequisites: Mathematics 2B and Physics 3B or 7C. Prerequisite: Chemistry 1C.

Covers the origin and evolution of the Earth, its atmosphere, and oceans, from the perspective of biogeochemical cycles, energy use, and human impacts on the Earth system. Earth System Science 1 and 25 may not both be taken for credit.

Elements of the hydrologic cycle including precipitation, infiltration, evapotranspiration, ground water, and runoff. Unit Hydrograph theory and routing methods. Introduction to precipitation/runoff relationship and watershed modeling. Statistical methods and flood frequency analysis. Discussion section covers advanced topics. Prerequisite: CEE170 or MAE130A or equivalent, or consent of instructor.

Basic principles of hydrologic modeling are practiced in detail. Concepts of watershed, floodplains delineation, hydrologic impact, design studies, and GIS tools are discussed. Focus on the USACE (HEC) software tools (HEC-HMS) and HECRAS) along with their associated GIS interfaces

Design of biological treatment processes. Topics include attached and suspended growth, aeration, anaerobic systems, process control and economics. Design projects included. Prerequisite: CEE161.

Introduction to geologic principles and applications to environmental problems. Topics include: tectonic processes, earth materials, soils, river processes, groundwater, the coastal environment, slope failures, seismic hazards, mineral resources, and land-use evaluation based on geologic conditions. Examples from case studies. Prerequisite: Social Ecology E8.

Introduction to the analysis of human population including fertility, mortality dispersion, sex distribution. Attention is focused on the effects of these variables on, e.g., over-population, social disorganization, and the stability of social institutions.

Human behavior in a geographical context. Spatial patterns and organization of the cultural, social, and economic activities of man as imposed on and influenced by the earth’s physical setting.

Design of biological treatment processes. Topics include attached and suspended growth, aeration, anaerobic systems, process control and economics. Design projects included. Prerequisite: CEE161.

The role of terrestrial processes in the Earth system. Provides an introduction to ecosystem processes that regulate the cycling of energy, water, carbon, and nutrients. Analysis of the impact of human activities. Prerequisite: Chemistry 1C.