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Course Description
Field-based studies of soils in California ecosystems, away from campus, throughout California. Emphasis on description and classification of soils; relationships among soils, vegetation, geology, and climate; physical, chemical, and biological processes in soils on the landscape; and the role of soils in land use. SSC 205 requires additional work for graduate credit. Prerequisites SSC 100 and SSC 120 or equivalent recommended. |
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Course Description
Recognition and description of soils; chemical, biological and physical processes of soil formation. Factors of soil formation. Interactions of soils with diverse ecosystems. Introduction to soil classification. Practice using soil taxonomy. Practical experience describing soil properties in the field. Prerequisites SSC 100; GEL 050 recommended. Learning Activities Lecture 4 hour(s), Laboratory 3 hour(s). |
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Course Description
Introduction to the field of soil science through an extraterrestrial lens, incorporating discussions, guest lectures by specialists in the field, and hands-on soil activities! Students learn about the important role that soils play in the planetary and space sciences with topics including the search for life, human settlement and exploration, space agriculture, and the use of modern terrestrial analogs to study the Moon and Mars. The course also highlights current societal issues related to the topic of Extraterrestrial Soils with a specific emphasis on in situ resource utilization and planetary protection. As part of the course, students have the opportunity to design, implement, and showcase an experiment using Martian simulant soil. This project provides a unique platform for students to explore the important topics covered in the course while engaging with their own personal and/or academic interests. We look forward to seeing the creativity in these projects each year! Prerequisites None Learning Activities Lecture/Discussion 3 hour(s) General Education Science and Engineering (SE) or Social Sciences (SS) |
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