GLS 342 - Plate Tectonics: Theory and Implication

3 Credit(s)

A systematic treatment of the geology and geophysics of plate tectonics, based on present knowledge of the structure and physical properties of the Earth’s interior. Included are present kinematics of plate movements, hypotheses of dynamics (such as mantle convection), global pattern of plates, detailed consideration of processes at plate convergences, paleoplate tectonics and continental drift of the last 200 million years as derived from ocean floor stratigraphy and structure, and inferences on the time of inception of plate tectonics and its role in earlier Earth history. Three lecture hours per week. Offered alternate years. Prerequisite: GLS 102 or permission of Department Chairperson.