Search result: Catalogue data in Autumn Semester 2020

Earth and Climate Sciences Bachelor Information
Basic Courses I
First Year Examinations
NumberTitleTypeECTSHoursLecturers
529-2001-02LChemistry I Restricted registration - show details O4 credits2V + 2UJ. Cvengros, J. E. E. Buschmann, P. Funck, S. Hug, E. C. Meister, R. Verel
AbstractGeneral Chemistry I: Chemical bond and molecular structure, chemical thermodynamics, chemical equilibrium.
Learning objectiveIntroduction to general and inorganic chemistry. Basics of the composition and the change of the material world. Introduction to the thermodynamically controlled physico-chemical processes. Macroscopic phenomena and their explanation through atomic and molecular properties. Using the theories to solve qualitatively and quantitatively chemical and ecologically relevant problems.
Content1. Stoichiometry
Amount of substance and mass. Composition of chemical compounds. Reaction equation. Ideal gas law.
2. Atoms
Elementary particles and atoms. Electron configuration of the elements. Periodic system.
3. Chemical bonding and its representation. Spatial arrangement of atoms in molecules. Molecular orbitals.
4. Basics of chemical thermodynamics
System and surroundings. Description of state and change of state of chemical systems.
5. First law of thermodynamics
Internal energy. Heat and Work. Enthalpy and reaction enthalpy.
6. Second law of thermodynamics
Entropy. Change of entropy in chemical systems and universe. Reaction entropy.
7. Gibbs energy and chemical potential.
Combination of laws of thermodynamics. Gibbs energy and chemical reactions. Activities of gases, condensed substances and species in solution. Equilibrium constant.
8. Chemical equilibrium
Law of mass action. Reaction quotient and equilibrium constant. Phase transition equilibrium.
9. Acids and bases
Properties of acids and bases. Dissociation of acids and bases. pH and the calculation of pH-values in acid-base systems. Acid-base diagrams. Buffers. Polyprotic acids and bases.
10. Dissolution and precipitation.
Heterogeneous equilibrium. Dissolution and solubility product. Carbon dioxide-carbonic acid-carbonate equilibrium.
Lecture notesOnline-Skript mit durchgerechneten Beispielen.
LiteratureCharles E. Mortimer, CHEMIE - DAS BASISWISSEN DER CHEMIE. 12. Auflage, Georg Thieme Verlag Stuttgart, 2015.

Weiterführende Literatur:
Theodore L. Brown, H. Eugene LeMay, Bruce E. Bursten, CHEMIE. 10. Auflage, Pearson Studium, 2011. (deutsch)

Catherine Housecroft, Edwin Constable, CHEMISTRY: AN INTRODUCTION TO ORGANIC, INORGANIC AND PHYSICAL CHEMISTRY, 3. Auflage, Prentice Hall, 2005.(englisch)
401-0251-00LMathematics I Restricted registration - show details O6 credits4V + 2UL. Halbeisen
AbstractThis course covers mathematical concepts and techniques necessary to model, solve and discuss scientific problems - notably through ordinary differential equations.
Learning objectiveMathematics is of ever increasing importance to the Natural Sciences and Engineering. The key is the so-called mathematical modelling cycle, i.e. the translation of problems from outside of mathematics into mathematics, the study of the mathematical problems (often with the help of high level mathematical software packages) and the interpretation of the results in the original environment.

The goal of Mathematics I and II is to provide the mathematical foundations relevant for this paradigm. Differential equations are by far the most important tool for modelling and are therefore a main focus of both of these courses.
Content1. Single-Variable Calculus:
review of differentiation, linearisation, Taylor polynomials, maxima and minima, antiderivative, fundamental theorem of calculus, integration methods, improper integrals.

2. Linear Algebra and Complex Numbers:
systems of linear equations, Gauss-Jordan elimination, matrices, determinants, eigenvalues and eigenvectors, cartesian and polar forms for complex numbers, complex powers, complex roots, fundamental theorem of algebra.

3. Ordinary Differential Equations:
separable ordinary differential equations (ODEs), integration by substitution, 1st and 2nd order linear ODEs, homogeneous systems of linear ODEs with constant coefficients, introduction to 2-dimensional dynamical systems.
Literature- Thomas, G. B.: Thomas' Calculus, Part 1 (Pearson Addison-Wesley).
- Bretscher, O.: Linear Algebra with Applications (Pearson Prentice Hall).
Prerequisites / NoticePrerequisites: familiarity with the basic notions from Calculus, in particular those of function and derivative.

Mathe-Lab (Assistance):
Mondays 18-20, Tuesdays 18-20, Wednesdays 18-20, in Room HG E 41.
651-3001-00LDynamic Earth I Restricted registration - show details O6 credits4V + 2UO. Bachmann, A. Galli, A. Fichtner, L. Krischer, M. Lupker, M. Schönbächler, S. Willett
AbstractProvides a basic introduction into Earth Sciences, emphasizing different rock-types and the geological rock-cycle, as well as introduction into geophysics and plate tectonic theory.
Learning objectiveUnderstanding basic geological and geophysical processes
ContentOverview of the Earth as a system, with emphasis on plate tectonic theory and the geological rock-cycle. Provides a basic introduction to crystals and minerals and different rock-types. Lectures include processes in the Earth's interior, physics of the earth, planetology, introduction to magmatic, metamorphic and sedimentary rocks. Excercises are conducted in small groups to provide more in depth understanding of concepts and content of the lectures.
Lecture noteswerden abgegeben.
LiteratureGrotzinger, J., Jordan, T.H., Press, F., Siever, R., 2007, Understanding Earth, W.H. Freeman & Co., New York, 5th Ed.
Press, F. Siever, R., Grotzinger, J. & Jordon, T.H., 2008, Allgemeine Geologie. Spektrum Akademischer Verlag, Heidelberg, 5.Auflage.
Prerequisites / NoticeExercises and short excursions in small groups (10-15 students) will be lead by student assistants. Specific topics in earth sciences will be discussed using examples and case studies. Hand samples of the major rock types will be described and interpreted. Short excursions in the region of Zurich will permit direct experience with earth science processes (e.g. earth surface processes) and recognition of earth science problems and solutions relevant for modern society (e.g. building materials, water resources). Working in small groups will allow for discussion and examination of actual earth science themes.
First Year Additional Compulsory Courses
NumberTitleTypeECTSHoursLecturers
529-0030-00LLaboratory Course: Elementary Chemical Techniques Restricted registration - show details O3 credits6PN. Kobert, A. de Mello, M. H. Schroth
AbstractThis practical course provides an introduction to elementary laboratory techniques.
The experiments cover a wide range of techniques, including analytical and synthetic techniques (e. g. investigation of soil and water samples or the preparation of simple compunds). Furthermore, the handling of gaseous substances is practised.
Learning objectiveThis course is intended to provide an overview of experimental chemical methods.
The handling of chemicals and proper laboratory techniques represent the main
learning targets. Furthermore, the description and recording of laboratory processes is an essential part of this course.
ContentThe classification and analysis of natural and artificial compounds is a key subject of this
course. It provides an introduction to elementary laboratory techniques, and the experiments cover a wide range of analytic and synthetic tasks:
Selected samples (e.g. soil and water) will be analysed with various methods, such as titrations,
spectroscopy or ion chromatography. The chemistry of aqeous solutions (acid-base equilibria and solvatation or precipitation processes) is studied.
The synthesis of simple inorganic complexes or organic molecules is practised.
Furthermore, the preparation and handling of environmentally relevant gaseous species like carbon dioxide or nitrogen oxides is a central subject of the Praktikum.
Lecture notesThe script will be published on the web.
Details will be provided on the first day of the semester.
LiteratureA thorough study of all script materials is requested before the course starts.
Prerequisites / NoticeSafety concept: https://chab.ethz.ch/studium/bachelor1.html
Repetition Fist Year Earth and Climate Sciences BSc
NumberTitleTypeECTSHoursLecturers
900-9011-00LRepetition Fist Year Earth and Climate Sciences BSc Restricted registration - show details 0 creditsnot available
Abstract
Learning objective
Basic Courses II
Core Courses
NumberTitleTypeECTSHoursLecturers
402-0000-03LLaboratory Course in Physics for Students in Earth Sciences Information
Enrollment is only possible under https://www.lehrbetrieb.ethz.ch/laborpraktika.
No registration required via myStudies. For further information visit: https://ap.phys.ethz.ch

Only students from 3rd Semester BSc Earth Sciences on are admitted to this Laboratory Course.
O2 credits4PA. Biland, M. Doebeli
AbstractThe central aim is to provide an individual experience of the physical phenomena and the basic principles of the experiment. By conducting simple physical experiments the student will learn how to properly use physical instruments and how to evaluate the results correctly.
Learning objectiveThis laboratory course aims to provide basic knowledge of
- the setup of a physics experiment,
- the use of measurement instruments,
- various measuring techniques,
- the analysis or measurement errors,
- and the interpretation of the measured quantities.
ContentFehlerrechnung, 9 ausgewählte Versuche zu folgenden Themen:

Transversalschwingung einer Saite, Mechanische Resonanz, Innere Reibung in Flüssigkeiten, Absoluter Nullpunkt der Temperaturskala, Universelle Gaskonstante, Spezifische Verdampfungswärme, Spezifische Wärme, Interferenz und Beugung, Drehung der Polarisationsebene, Spektrale Absorption, Energieverteilung im Spektrum, Spektroskopie, Leitfähigkeit eines Elektrolyten, Elektrische Leitfähigkeit und Wärmeleitfähigkeit, Radioaktivität, Radioaktive Innenluft, Dichte und Leitfähigkeit, Fluss durch ein poröses Medium, Lärm.

Die Auswahl der Versuche kann zwischen den verschiedenen Studiengängen variieren.
Lecture notesAnleitungen zum Physikalischen Praktikum
Examination Block 1
NumberTitleTypeECTSHoursLecturers
402-0063-00LPhysics IIO5 credits3V + 1UA. Vaterlaus
AbstractIntroduction to the concepts and tools in Physics, with the help of demonstration experiments. The Chapters treated are Electromagnetism, Refraction and Diffraction of Waves, Elements of Quantum Mechanics with applications to Spectroscopy, Thermodynamics, Phase Transitions, Transport Phenomena. Whenever possible, examples relevant to the students' main field of study are given.
Learning objectiveIntroduction to the scientific methodology. The student should develop his/her capability to turn physical observations into mathematical models, and to solve them.
Lecture notesA script will be distributed
LiteratureFriedhelm Kuypers
Physik für Ingenieure und Naturwissenschaftler
Band 2 Elektrizität, Optik, Wellen
Wiley-VCH, 2012
ISBN 3527411445, 9783527411443

Douglas C. Giancoli
Physik
3. erweiterte Auflage
Pearson Studium

Hans J. Paus
Physik in Experimenten und Beispielen
Carl Hanser Verlag, München, 2002, 1068 S.

Paul A. Tipler
Physik
Spektrum Akademischer Verlag, 1998, 1522 S., ca Fr. 120.-

David Halliday Robert Resnick Jearl Walker
Physik
Wiley-VCH, 2003, 1388 S., Fr. 87.- (bis 31.12.03)

dazu gratis Online Ressourcen (z.B. Simulationen): www.halliday.de
651-3400-00LGeochemistry I
The course replaces 651-3400-00 Geochemie. Students who completed 651-3400-00 Geochemie are not eligible to Geochemie I.
O4 credits3GM. Schönbächler, D. Vance
AbstractIntroduction to geochemistry and its application to the study of the origin and evolution of the Earth and planets.
Learning objectiveGain 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.
ContentThis 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 notesThe slides are available online.
LiteratureH. Y. McSween et al.: Geochemistry - Pathways and Processes,
2nd ed. Columbia Univ. Press (2003)

William White: Geochemistry, Wiley-Blackwell Chichester (2013)
Prerequisites / NoticePrerequisite: chemical thermodynamics, basic inorganic chemistry and physics.
701-0023-00LAtmosphere Information O3 credits2VE. Fischer, T. Peter
AbstractBasic principles of the atmosphere, physical structure and chemical composition, trace gases, atmospheric cycles, circulation, stability, radiation, condensation, clouds, oxidation capacity and ozone layer.
Learning objectiveUnderstanding of basic physical and chemical processes in the atmosphere. Understanding of mechanisms of and interactions between: weather - climate, atmosphere - ocean - continents, troposhere - stratosphere. Understanding of environmentally relevant structures and processes on vastly differing scales. Basis for the modelling of complex interrelations in the atmospehre.
ContentBasic principles of the atmosphere, physical structure and chemical composition, trace gases, atmospheric cycles, circulation, stability, radiation, condensation, clouds, oxidation capacity and ozone layer.
Lecture notesWritten information will be supplied.
Literature- John H. Seinfeld and Spyros N. Pandis, Atmospheric Chemistry and Physics: From Air Pollution to Climate Change, Wiley, New York, 1998.
- Gösta H. Liljequist, Allgemeine Meteorologie, Vieweg, Braunschweig, 1974.
Examination Block 2
NumberTitleTypeECTSHoursLecturers
701-0071-00LMathematics III: Systems AnalysisO4 credits2V + 1UR. Knutti, I. Medhaug, L. Brunner, S. Schemm, H. Wernli
AbstractThe objective of the systems analysis course is to deepen and illustrate the mathematical concepts on the basis of a series of very concrete examples. Topics covered include: linear box models with one or several variables, non-linear box models with one or several variables, time-discrete models, and continuous models in time and space.
Learning objectiveLearning and applying of concepts (models) and quantitative methods to address concrete problems of environmental relevance. Understanding and applying the systems-analytic approach, i.e., Recognizing the core of the problem - simplification - quantitative approach - prediction.
Contenthttps://iac.ethz.ch/edu/courses/bachelor/vorbereitung/systemanalyse.html
Lecture notesOverhead slides will be made available through the course website.
LiteratureImboden, D.S. and S. Pfenninger (2013) Introduction to Systems Analysis: Mathematically Modeling Natural Systems. Berlin Heidelberg: Springer Verlag.

http://link.springer.com/book/10.1007%2F978-3-642-30639-6
651-3543-00LGeophysik I
This course replaces 651-3543-00 Seismology. Students who completed Seismology cannot attend Geophysics I.
O4 credits2V + 1UD. Giardini, M. O. Saar
AbstractGeneral knowlede of seismology.
Learning objectiveGeneral knowlede of seismology.
651-3507-00LIntroduction to Oceanography and HydrogeologyO3 credits2VD. Vance, M. O. Saar
AbstractThis course is designed to provide an introduction to hydrogeology and oceanography for all Earth Science students at ETH. It provides an overview of the physical controls on water flow in streams, aquifers, and the oceans. It also deals with the basics of groundwater chemistry, biogeochemical cycling in the oceans, the role of the oceans as carbon reservoirs and their dynamic redox state.
Learning objectiveTo understand and describe the basic principles of the hydrologic cycle and water flow in streams and aquifers.

To conduct simple calculations of water transfer in streams and aquifers as well as of flood frequencies and magnitudes.

To discuss surface and groundwater as a water resource.

To interpret different ion distributions in aquifers in terms of bacic water chemistry, fluid-mineral reactions, water contamination, and water origin.

To understand the major features of ocean basins and the tectonic controls on their structure.

To identify the major controls on the temperature, salinity and density structure of the oceans.

To describe how these controls interact to drive surface and interior ocean circulation.

To interpret different kinds of element distribution in the oceans in terms of basic chemistry, sinks, sources and internal biogeochemical cycling.

To discuss the cycles of carbon and oxygen in the ocean, with a view to the critical analysis of how the oceans respond to, cause and record the dynamics of these cycles in Earth history.
ContentThis course provides an introduction to oceanography and hydrogeology, with a special focus on the basic physicochemical concepts that control the properties and behaviour of two major reservoirs of water on Earth.

The hydrogeology component will: 1) describe the hydrologic cycle, with a focus on the importance of groundwater to society; introduce the basic physical aspects of groundwater flow, including Darcy's law, hydraulic head, hydraulic conductivity, aquifers; 2) describe the basics of groundwater chemistry, including major ions and mean meteoric water line, basics of groundwater contamination; 3) introduce the interface with the oceans, including hydrothermal circulation at mid-ocean ridges, ocean-water intrusion into groundwater at coasts.

The oceanography component will: 1) provide an overview of the physical circulation of the oceans, including its importance for heat transfer around the surface of the Earth and for climate; 2) describe the basic processes that control the chemistry of the oceans, including its temporal and spatial variability; 3) introduce some simple concepts in biological oceanography, including the dependence of ocean ecology on nutrient distributions. There will be a specific focus on how the physics, chemistry and biology of the ocean might have changed through Earth history, and the impact of oceanic processes on Earth's climate.
Lecture notesAvailable
LiteratureTalley, L.D., Pickard, G.L., Emery, W.J. and Swift, J.H. Descriptive Physical Oceanography, an Introduction. (2011) Online textbook, available at http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/book/9780750645522.

Libes, S.M. (2009) Introduction to marine biogeochemistry. 2nd edition. Academic Press
Prerequisites / NoticeChemie I and II, Physik I and II, Mathematik I and II.
General Earth Sciences Courses
NumberTitleTypeECTSHoursLecturers
651-4143-00LGeobiology Restricted registration - show details O3 credits2V + 1UT. I. Eglinton, C. Magnabosco, C. Welte, S. Wohlwend
AbstractWe will study traces in the lithosphere that have been left behind by organisms during the course of Earth history and mineral components, which were built through biological processes or used as sources of energy and nutrients by organisms. Traces of life from the past will be compared with the development of the diversity of today's organisms.
Learning objectiveThe course will allow you to ask questions about the origin and the evolution of life on Earth, to understand contemporary hypotheses and create new methods of developing them further. Theory is supplemented with observations in the field, exercises and the application of simple mathematical models. The course will enable you to integrate geobiological knowledge into topics that will be taught in subsequent earth science courses and into the current understanding of Earth history. You will learn to better understand modern geological settings and, if necessary, to recommend biogeochemically well-founded and responsible interventions or protective measures.
ContentThe course focuses on (a) geobiochemical cycles that play major roles in Earth history in aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems, (b) biosynthetic and metabolic processes, which are essential for life, (c) organisms which regulate and maintain geochemical cycling, and (d) chemical signals of past life in the geological record.
Accordingly, we must understand
-- how biological cells and its components are built from essential elements and molecules,
-- how cells function and which life styles organisms developed,
-- where organisms can exist and which factors select for their presence,
-- where biologically useable forms of energy come from, and under which conditions they can be exploited,
-- how biological metabolism can change environmental conditions and composition,
-- which biological products can lead to signals preserved in the rock record, and how biomolecules and elements are altered in sedimentary deposits,
-- how organic and inorganic components are cycled through the biosphere, and how biogeochemical cycles function,
-- how "biological innovations" evolved and changed in response to environmental changes.

Applied Case Studies, which supplement and illustrate the contents:
-- Scientific applications of geobiological knowledge are found in fields like Microbial Ecology, Geochemistry, Palaeontology, Sedimentology, Petrology, Ocean Research, Environmental Sciences, Astrobiology and Archaeology.
-- Practical applications of geobiological knowledge are needed in fields like stabilisation of existing and design of safe waste repositories, surveilling ground water resources, sewage treatment, exploitation of and prospecting for fossil carbon sources, soil remediation, mineral exploration and leaching, forensic science and medicine.
651-3301-00LCrystals and Minerals Restricted registration - show details O4 credits2V + 1.5US. Petitgirard, E. Reusser, G. Spiekermann
AbstractTo understand, qualitatively and semi-quantitatively, crystal and mineral formation, the interdependence between crystals structure, chemical composition and physical properties. This dependence is especially the case for the structural dependence of optical anisotropy and the elastic properties of the minerals as well as for the growth of crystals and their defect structures.
Learning objectiveTo understand, qualitatively and semi-quantitatively, crystal and mineral formation, the interdependence between crystals structure, chemical composition and physical properties. This dependence is especially the case for the structural dependence of optical anisotropy and the elastic properties of the minerals as well as for the growth of crystals and their defect structures.
Contento Symmetrien und Ordnung, Punktgruppen, Translationsgruppen, Raumgruppen.
o einfache Strukturtypen, dichte Kugelpackungen, Strukturbestimmende Faktoren
o Chemisch Bindungen, Beziehungen zwischen Struktur und Eigenschaften eine Kristalls.
o Grundlagen von Thermodynamik und Computersimulationen in der Kristallographie.
o Einführung in die Mineralogie und Mineralsystematik.
o Praktikum in Mineralbestimmen aufgrund makroskopischer Eigenschaften.
Literature1. An Introduction to Mineral Sciences. (1992).
Andrew Putnis.
2. Kleber, W., Bautsch, H. J., and Bohm, J. (1998) – Einführung in die Kristallographie, Verlag Technik GmbH Berlin.
3. Minerals. (2004).
Hans-Rudolf Wenk, Andrei Bulakh
651-4271-00LData Analysis and Visualisation with Matlab in Earth Sciences Restricted registration - show details O3 credits3GG. De Souza, A. Obermann, S. Wiemer
AbstractThis lecture and the corresponding exercises provide the students with an introduction to the concepts and tools of scientific data analysis. Based on current questions in the Earth Sciences, the students solve problems of increasing complexity both in small groups and singly using the software package MATLAB. Students also learn how to effectively visualise different kinds of datasets.
Learning objectiveThe following concepts are introduced in the course:
- Working with matrices and arrays
- Programming and development of algorithms
- Effective data analysis and visualisation in 2D and 3D
- Learning to effectively use animations
- Statistical description of a dataset
- Regression analysis
- Testing hypotheses
651-3402-00LMagmatism and Metamorphose I Restricted registration - show details O4 credits2V + 1UM. W. Schmidt, P. Ulmer
AbstractThis course treats the generation and evolution of igneous rocks as well as the metamorphism of igneous and sedimentary rocks as products of geodynamic processes operating within the Earth´s interior.
Learning objectiveThis course combines petrography, geochemistry, experimental and theoretical petrology to assess fundamental igneous and metamorphic processes controlling the generation and evolution of igneous and metamorphic rocks in time and space. Principle targets are (1) the generation of magmas in the Earth mantle and crust, differentiation and emplacement of magmas at depth and on the surface and (2) metamorphism of igneous and sedimentary rock series and their relationships in the framework of global tectonics. The material is mostly presented in qualitative way. A quantification of igneous and metamorphic processes based on modal mineralogy, geochemistry, phase petrology and thermodynamic principles is assessed and further promoted in the accompanying homework and exercises.

Basic knowledge of rock-forming minerals and the classification of igneous and metamorphic rocks are required and will be further trained during the exercises.
ContentIntroduction – Historic evolution – magmatism-metamorphism-tectonics
Earth mantle – composition, metamorphism, deep mantle mineralogy
Partial melting of the Earth´s mantle
Binary and ternary subsolidus and liquidus phase diagrams
Tholeiitic magmatism – MORB and large igneous provinces (LIP)
Subduction zones – Magmatism at convergent plate margins, H2O-cycle
Geochemistry in igneous petrology
Igneous differentiation processes at convergent plate margins
Metamorphism of pelitic rocks (metapelites) and crustal melting
Material cycles at convergent plate margins
Lecture notesLecture notes and homework are provided and additional material is made available on Moodle.
LiteratureAs supplementary material we recommend the book by J.D. Winter. «Principles of Igneous and metamorphic petrology», Prentice Hall, 2001.
Prerequisites / Notice8 homework assignments (of totally 12) must be acceptably solved, the delivery of 10 acceptably solved homework assignments is acknowledged with an increase of the final grade by 0.25.

The end-of-term examination will take place in the two weeks scheduled in January.
Integrated Earth Systems
NumberTitleTypeECTSHoursLecturers
651-4180-02LIntegrated Earth Systems II Restricted registration - show details O5 credits4G + 1UH. Stoll, D. Vance, S. Willett
AbstractThe surface Earth is often thought of as a set of interacting systems, often with feedbacks between them. These interacting systems control the tectonics, geomorphology, climate, and biology of the surface Earth. To fully understand the nature of the Earth System, including the controls on its past evolution, its present state, and its future, an integrated perspective is required.
Learning objectiveTo introduce students to an integrated view of the surface Earth, uniting perspectives from different disciplines of the earth sciences.

To encourage students in the critical analysis of data and models in Earth Science.
ContentPlanet Earth has had a complex history since its formation ~4.6 billion years ago. The surface Earth is often thought of as a set of interacting systems, often with positive and negative feedbacks between them. These interacting systems control the tectonics, geomorphology, climate, and biology of the surface Earth. To fully understand the nature of the Earth System, including the controls on its past evolution, its present state, and its future, an integrated perspective is required. This is a subject that pulls in observations and models from many areas of the Earth Sciences, including geochemistry, geophysics, geology and biology. The main goal of the course is to convey this integrated view of the surface of our planet.

We will achieve this integrated view through a series of lectures, exercises, and tutorials. We take as our framework some of the key events in Earth history, encouraging understanding of the controlling processes through integrated observations, ideas and models from disciplines across science.
Majors
Major: Geology and Geophysics
Advisors of the major in Geology and Geophysics are Dr. Vincenzo Picotti (Geology) and Dr. Jérôme Noir (Geophysics).
Methods
NumberTitleTypeECTSHoursLecturers
651-3527-00LEarth Science Mapping Exercises II Restricted registration - show details W+2 credits2PJ. Ruh
AbstractReading and interpretation of geological maps.
Learning objectiveAll participants are able to:

- Read and understand complex geological maps;
- Assess, select, and project information from real case studies;
- Make tectonic overview sketches and construct meaningfull cross-sections;
ContentAdvanced analysis of geological maps and construction of geological sections. Special points: normal faults of the Rheintal graben, Val de Ruz, Helvetic nappes of the Säntis area. Reconstruction of the geological history of the map areas. References to the Geology of Switzerland.
Lecture notesExercises and instructions are handed out.
LiteratureNot required but for reference (in library holdings):

- Bennison, G.M., and Mosley, K.A., 1997. An introduction to geological structures and maps. Arnold, London.
- Lisle, R.J., 1995. Geological structures and maps. Butterworth Heinemann
- Powell, D., 1995. Interpretation geologischer Strukturen durch Karten. Springer, Berlin
- Wijermars, R., 1997. Structural geology and map interpretation. Alboran Science Publishing.
Prerequisites / NoticeRequirement: Earth science mapping exercises I
401-0624-00LMathematics IV: Statistics Restricted registration - show details W+4 credits2V + 1UJ. Ernest
AbstractIntroduction to basic methods and fundamental concepts of statistics and probability theory for practicioners in natural sciences. The concepts will be illustrated with some real data examples. The lecture will be held in German.
Learning objectiveCapacity to learn from data; good practice when dealing with data and recognizing possible fraud in statistics; basic knowledge 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.
ContentBeschreibende Statistik (einschliesslich graphischer Methoden).
Einführung in die Wahrscheinlichkeitsrechnung (Grundregeln, Zufallsvariable, diskrete und stetige Verteilungen, Ausblick auf Grenzwertsätze). Methoden der Analytischen Statistik: Schätzungen, Tests (einschliesslich Binomialtest, t-Test, Vorzeichentest, F-Test, Wilcoxon-Test), Vertrauensintervalle, Prognoseintervalle, Korrelation, einfache und multiple lineare Regression.
Lecture notesSkript zur Vorlesung ist erhältlich.
LiteratureStahel, W.: Statistische Datenanalyse. Vieweg 1995, 3. Auflage 2000 (als ergänzende Lektüre)
Prerequisites / NoticeDie Übungen (ca. die Hälfte der Kontaktstunden; einschliesslich Computerübungen) sind ein wichtiger Bestandteil der Lehrveranstaltung.

Voraussetzungen: Mathematik I, II
651-4031-00LGeographic Information Systems Restricted registration - show details W+3 credits4GA. Baltensweiler, M. Hägeli-Golay
AbstractIntroduction to the architecture and data processing capabilities of geographic information systems (GIS). Practical application of spatial data modeling and geoprocessing functions to a selected project from the earth sciences.
Learning objectiveKnowledge of the basic architecture and spatial data handling capabilities of geographic information systems.
ContentTheoretical introduction to the architecture, modules, spatial data types and spatial data handling functions of geographic information systems (GIS). Application of data modeling principles and geoprocessing capabilities using ArcGIS: Data design and modeling, data acquisition, data integration, spatial analysis of vector and raster data, particular functions for digital terrain modeling and hydrology, map generation and 3D-visualization.
Lecture notesIntroduction to Geographic Information Systems, Tutorial: Introduction to ArcGIS Desktop
LiteratureLongley, P. A., M. F. Goodchild, D. J. Maguire, and D. W. Rhind (2015): Geographic Information Systems and Science. Fourth Edition. John Wiley & Sons, Chichester, England.

DeMers, M. N. (2009): Fundamentals of Geographic Information Systems. John Wiley & Sons, Hoboken, N.J., USA.
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