Students will be introduced to physical oceanography. Topics include ocean basin evolution by plate tectonics, seawater chemistry, waves, currents, tides, coastal processes, and the oceanic influences upon weather, climate, and climate change. Emphasis is placed on the natural resources provided by the world ocean and societal impacts upon the coastal and marine environments. The course is oriented to students in non-science majors. Students receive credit for either EARTH 1130 or EARTH 1131 but not both. (3 lecture hours)

Prerequisite: Course requires Reading Placement Category One. Recommended: MATH 0465 or MATH 0481 with a grade of C or better, or equivalent. Successful completion of high school algebra is assumed.

Course types: General Education: Physical Sciences (A.A.S., A.G.S.), General Education: Physical/Life Science (A.A.S., A.G.S.)