Search result: Catalogue data in Spring Semester 2016
Earth Sciences Bachelor | ||||||
4. Semester | ||||||
General Courses in Earth Sciences The general courses in Earth Sciences are offered in the 3rd and 4th semester. 35 credits of totally 44 credits have to be acquired. | ||||||
Number | Title | Type | ECTS | Hours | Lecturers | |
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651-3660-00L | Analysis of Time Series in Environmental Physics and Geophysics | W | 3 credits | 2G | F. Haslinger, Y. D. Behr, A. Obermann | |
Abstract | Introduction to different methods for the analysis of time-dependent data. | |||||
Objective | Understanding of various methods for the analysis of time-dependent data. | |||||
Content | Based on various data sets we illustrate basic principles of time series and apply different methods of analysis: deterministic and stochastic processes, stationary and non-stationary processes, sampling theorem, trend analysis, auto- and cross-correlation, frequency analysis (Fourier Transformation). The exercises serve also as an introduction to MATLAB. | |||||
Lecture notes | Lecture notes and exercises are made available. | |||||
Literature | - R. H. Shumway and D. S. Stoffer: Time Series Analysis and its Applications. Springer, New York, 2000. - W.H. Press, B.P. Flannery, S.A. Teukolsky und W.T. Wetterling: Numerical Recipes: The Art of Scientific Computing. Cambridge University Press. | |||||
Prerequisites / Notice | This course is mandatory for all geophysics students. In-class exercises per Computer with the software MATLAB. Active participation of the students is expected. Prerequisites: equivalent to the first three semester of an earth science or environmental science curriculum. | |||||
401-0624-00L | Mathematics IV: Statistics | W | 4 credits | 2V + 1U | D. Stekhoven | |
Abstract | Introduction to basic methods and fundamental concepts of statistics and probability theory for practicioners in natural sciences.The concepts are illustrated with some real data examples. The lecture will be held in german. | |||||
Objective | Capacity to learn from data; good practice when dealing with data and recognizing possible fraud in statistics; basic konwoledge about the laws of randomness and stochastic thinking (thinking in probabilities); apply simple methods in inferential statistics (e.g., several hypothesis tests will be introduced). The lecture will be held in german. | |||||
Content | Beschreibende Statistik (einschliesslich graphischer Methoden). Einführung in die Wahrscheinlichkeitsrechnung (Grundregeln, Zufallsvariable, diskrete und stetige Verteilungen, Ausblick auf Grenzwertsätze). Methoden der Analytischen Statistik: Schätzungen, Tests (einschliesslich Vorzeichentest, t-Test, F-Test, Wilcoxon-Test), Vertrauensintervalle, Prognoseintervalle, Korrelation, einfache und multiple Regression. | |||||
Lecture notes | Kurzes Skript zur Vorlesung ist erhältlich. | |||||
Literature | Stahel, W.: Statistische Datenanalyse. Vieweg 1995, 3. Auflage 2000 (als ergänzende Lektüre) | |||||
Prerequisites / Notice | Die Übungen (ca. die Hälfte der Kontaktstunden; einschliesslich Computerübungen) sind ein wichtiger Bestandteil der Lehrveranstaltung. Voraussetzungen: Mathematik I, II und III | |||||
651-3400-00L | Geochemistry | W+ | 3 credits | 2V | M. Schönbächler, D. Vance | |
Abstract | Introduction to geochemistry and its application to the study of the origin and evolution of the Earth and planets. | |||||
Objective | Gain an overview of geochemical methods used in various fields of Earth Sciences and how they can be applied to study geological processes in the Earth’s mantle, crust, oceans and atmosphere. | |||||
Content | This course is an introduction into geochemistry with a special focus on the basic concepts used in this rapidly evolving field. The course deals with the geochemist's toolbox: the basic chemical and nuclear properties of elements from the periodic table and how these elements can be used to ask fundamental questions in Earth Sciences. The important concepts used in solid-solution-gas equilibria are introduced. The concepts of chemical reservoirs and geochemical cycles are discussed with examples from the carbon cycle in the Earth. The course also addresses geological applications in low- and high-temperature geochemistry, including the formation of continents, the differentiation of the Earth, the geochemistry of ocean and continental waters. | |||||
Lecture notes | Available | |||||
Literature | H. Y. McSween et al.: Geochemistry - Pathways and Processes, 2nd ed. Columbia Univ. Press (2003) William White: Geochemistry, Wiley-Blackwell Chichester (2013) | |||||
Prerequisites / Notice | Prerequisite: chemical thermodynamics, basic inorganic chemistry and physics. | |||||
651-3402-00L | Magmatism and Volcanism | W+ | 4 credits | 2V + 1U | P. Ulmer | |
Abstract | Thh lectures concerns with generation and evolution of igneous rocks as products of geodynamic processes operating within the Earth's interior. | |||||
Objective | This lecture combines petrography, geochemistry, experimental and theoretical petrology to assess fundamental processes controlling the generation and differentiation of igneous rocks in time and space. Principle targets are the generation of magmas in the Earth upper mantle and crust, differentiation and emplacement of magmas at depth and on the surface. The most prominent volcanic and plutonic rock series are presented and their relationships in the framework of global tectonics are discussed. The material is mostly presented in qualitative way. However, a quantification of igneous processes basing on modal mineralogy, geochemistry, phase petrology and thermodynamic principles is assessed on simple examples in the lectures and in part of the accompanying practicals. Basic knowledge of rock-forming minerals and the classification of igneous rocks are required and will be further trained during the praticals. | |||||
Content | Introduction – Historic evolution – Magmatism-Tectonics Igneous Petrology and thermodynamics – Some basic principles Representation and normalization of igneous minerals and rocks Physical properties of magmas and emplacement mechanisms Binary and ternary liquidus phase diagrams (principles and basaltic systems) Physical volcanology - Tephra vs. lava Tholeiitic magmatism 1 – MORB and flood basalts Tholeiitic magmatism 2 – Layered Intrusions Partial melting in the Earth upper mantle Geochemistry in igneous petrology Subduction magmatism (magmatism at convergent plate margins) Calc-alkaline volcanism (Cascadian volcanoes) Calc-alkaline plutonic rocks (Adamello batholith) Alkaline intraplate magmatism Liquidus phase diagrams for felsic systems: Feldspars – SiO2 – feldspatoids CO2-rich magmas: Kimberlites, organeites and carbonatites Volcanism versus plutonism: The role of H2O during melting and crystallization of basalt and granite under elevated pressures | |||||
Lecture notes | Extensive lecture notes are provided for CHF 15.- (sold in the first lecture) | |||||
651-3420-00L | Palaeontology and Biostratigraphy | W+ | 3 credits | 2G | H. Bucher, M. Hautmann, C. Klug, E. Schneebeli-Hermann | |
Abstract | Introduction to methods in paleontology and biostratigraphy. Presentation of major fossil groups of interest to earth scientists with introduction to their morphology, age, evolution, history, ecology, skeletons and their materials. Analyzes of the fossil record with applications to paleobiogeography, paleoecology and time scales. | |||||
Objective | Knowledge of the major methods in paleontology and biostratigraphy. Significance and application of fossil groups for earth scientists. Overview over important invertebrate groups, their morphology, temporal distribution, evolution and ecological significance. Understanding the properties of the fossil record and the applicability of various biochronological methods. | |||||
Content | History and methods in paleontology. Presentation of the major morphological Bauplans, with a focus on hard parts, temporal distribution, ecological significance of major fossil groups: microfossils, corals, cephalopods, bivalves, brachiopods, arthropods and echinoderms with respect to fossilisation, trace fossils, paleoecology, biostratigraphy, biochronology, paleobiogeography and biodiversity. | |||||
Lecture notes | All important documents needed for course and lab work will be available (pdf) on the internet. | |||||
Literature | Boardman, R.S., Cheetham, A.H. & Rowell, A.J. 1987: Fossil invertebrates. Blackwell. Stanley SM 1999 Earth System History. Freeman & Co. Lehmann, U. & Hillmer, G. 1997: Wirbellose Tiere der Vorzeit. Enke, Stuttgart. Prothero, D.R. 1998: Bringing Fossil to Life. WCB/McGraw-Hill. Link | |||||
Prerequisites / Notice | In addition to the lectures, lab work will be held in two groups (Tuesday afternoon, 13.15-15 hrs, and Wednesday morning, 8.15-10 hrs) in the lecture hall of the Paläontologischen Institut (Raum KO2 E72). | |||||
651-3422-00L | Structural Geology | W+ | 3 credits | 2V | J.‑P. Burg, N. Mancktelow | |
Abstract | Description and introduction to the development processes of 1) Brittle structures (Faults, joints, cracks and veins) 2) Ductile structures (Folds, foliations, lineations, shear zones and diapirs) 3) Introduction to finite strain | |||||
Objective | Acquire a large knowledge of deformation structures and acquire some insight into the processes that control the development of these deformation structures. | |||||
Content | Description and introduction to the development processes of 1) Brittle structures (Faults, joints, cracks and veins) 2) Ductile structures (Folds, foliations, lineations, shear zones and diapirs) 3) Introduction to finite strain | |||||
Literature | Eisbacher G.H. (1996) Einführung in die Tektonik (2.Auflage). Enke Verlag. Meschede M. (1994) Methoden der Strukturgeologie. Enke Verlag. Means W.D. (1976) Stress and strain. Basic concepts of continuum mechanics for geologists. Springer Verlag. Ramsay J.G. & Huber M.I. (1983) The techniques of modern structural geology - Volume1 : Strain analysis. Academic Press. Ramsay J.G. & Huber M.I. (1987) The techniques of modern structural geology - Volume2 : Folds and fractures. Academic Press. Twiss R.J. & Moores E.M. (1992) Structural geology. W.H. Freeman & Company. | |||||
651-3424-00L | Sedimentology | W+ | 3 credits | 2G | A. Gilli | |
Abstract | Introduction of a range of concepts in sedimentology, Earth's surface processes and sedimentary geology in terms of processes and products. Familiarize students with a range of erosional, transportational and depositional processes and environments. The typical facies of the main depositional environments will be introduced. | |||||
Objective | Students know about physical, chemical and biogenic sediments and sedimentary rocks. They are familiar with important physical, chemical and biological apects of sedimentation in continental settings and in the marine environment. The have the fundamentals needed for analysis and interpretation of sediments and sedimentary rocks in the field. | |||||
Content | Teil I Marine and lakustrische Sedimente: -pelagische Sedimente -hemipelagische Sedimente -kieslige Sedimente -Flachwasserkarbonate: Fazies, Diagenese -lakustische Sedimente -Evaporite Teil II klastische Sedimente - Sediment Transport, Strukturen und Schichtformen - Terrestrische, flachmarine und tiefmarine Ablagerungsbereiche, Prozesse und Ablagerungsstrukturen - Diagenese von Sandstein - Tongesteine | |||||
Lecture notes | Sedimentologie-Skript | |||||
Prerequisites / Notice | Vorlesung "Dynamische Erde" oder vergleichbare Einführungsvorlesung | |||||
252-0840-01L | Introductory Programming in MATLAB | W | 2 credits | 2G | T. Hruz | |
Abstract | The lecture "Introductory Programming in MATLAB" provides a basic knowledge about imperative programming. Additionally, the students learn how to apply imperative programming in modeling of domain specific systems. | |||||
Objective | The students should learn how to write programs in MATLAB, resp. how to understand, change and extent existing programs. | |||||
Content | A basic knowledge about imperative programming is explained together with algorithms and data structures for simulation tasks in MATLAB. Additionally, the techniques how to modularize large programs are discussed. During the exercises the students write their own programs in team. The course is closed with a larger project which simulates a complex system from the students main domain of study. 1) MATLAB installation, MATLAB programming environment, Help, variables, expressions, floating point number representation 2) Modeling and simulation in Environmental sciences 3) Program branching, loops, propositional logic 4) Matrices in MATLAB 5) 2D visualization in MATLAB 6) Function, Modularity, Stack, local Variables (scope) 7) Rekursion, 3D visualization 8) Modeling and simulation of dynamic systems in MATLAB | |||||
Literature | Einstieg ins Programmieren mit Matlab, U. Stein, Carl Hanser Verlag. | |||||
651-3480-00L | Field Trips of the 4th Semester | W | 2 credits | 4U | P. Brack, further lecturers | |
Abstract | Excursions to a wide range of geological topics in the Alps and adjacent areas | |||||
Objective | Geological principles and observations in the field | |||||
Content | Geological, petrological and paleontological aspects depending on excursion | |||||
Lecture notes | Field-trip handouts | |||||
Prerequisites / Notice | For information regarding individual excursions see respective announcements | |||||
701-0412-00L | Climate Systems | W | 3 credits | 2G | R. Knutti | |
Abstract | This course introduces the most important physical components of the climate system and their interactions. The mechanisms of anthropogenic climate change are analysed against the background of climate history and variability. Those completing the course will be in a position to identify and explain simple problems in the area of climate systems. | |||||
Objective | Students are able - to describe the most important physical components of the global climate system and sketch their interactions - to explain the mechanisms of anthropogenic climate change - to identify and explain simple problems in the area of climate systems | |||||
Lecture notes | Copies of the slides are provided in electronic form. | |||||
Literature | A comprehensive list of references is provided in the class. Two books are particularly recommended: - Hartmann, D., 1994: Global Physical Climatology. Academic Press, London, 411 pp. - Peixoto, J.P. and A.H. Oort, 1992: Physics of Climate. American Institute of Physics, New York, 520 pp. | |||||
Prerequisites / Notice | Teaching: Reto Knutti, several keynotes to special topics by other professors Course taught in german, slides in english | |||||
651-3440-01L | Gravimetry | W+ | 3 credits | 2G | M. D. Ballmer | |
Abstract | Treatment of fundamental aspects of geophysics in the area of gravimetry: methods and applications. | |||||
Objective | Treatment of fundamental aspects of geophysics in the area of gravimetry: methods and applications. | |||||
Content | Gravimetry: gravitation, Earth rotation, centrifugal force. Gravity, geoid, reference ellipsoid, normal gravity. Reduction of gravity measurements, gravity anomalies. Isostasy: models of Pratt, Airy, Vening Meinesz. Interpretation of gravity anomalies and relationship to dynamic and static features. | |||||
Lecture notes | Lecture slides will be distributed. | |||||
Literature | W. Lowrie: Fundamentals of Geophysics, 2007. C. M. R. Fowler: The Solid Earth - An Introduction to Global Geophysics, 2004. | |||||
Prerequisites / Notice | Prerequisite: The Dynamic Earth I or an equivalent course. | |||||
651-3440-02L | Geomagnetism | W | 3 credits | 2G | A. Jackson | |
Abstract | Treatment of fundamental aspects of geophysics in the area of geomagnetism: methods and applications. We will explore the mechanisms by which the geomegnetic field is created, how geomagnetic measurements can be used on small and regional scales to discover sub-surface properties of the crust, and how palaeomagnetism tells us about the hiistory of the Earth. | |||||
Objective | Our objectives are to learn fundamental theories and techniques relevant to the geomagnetic field, but also to put them into practice in a quantitative way. We will learn to use mathematical techniques make quantitative estimates of geophysical phenomena. The examination will require the implementation of mathematics to solve questions in the sphere of geomagentism. | |||||
Content | Geomagnetism: geomagnetic fields of external and internal origin, dipole and non-dipole fields, diurnal variation, magnetic prospecting, magnetic anomalies. Rock magnetism, remanent magnetizations. Paleomagnetism: sample treatment, secular variation, geocentric axial dipole field, apparent polar wander curves, polarity reversals, magnetic stratigraphy. | |||||
Lecture notes | Script will be distributed. | |||||
Literature | Primary Text: W. Lowrie: Fundamentals of Geophysics, Cambridge University Press 1997 (1st Edition) or 2007 (2nd Edition) Secondary Texts: C. M. R. Fowler: The Solid Earth - An Introduction to Global Geophysics, Cambridge University Press, 1990. F. D. Stacey and P. M. Davis: Physics of the Earth, Cambridge Uniiversity Press 2008. | |||||
Prerequisites / Notice | Prerequisite: The Dynamic Earth I or an equivalent course. |
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