GEO 206 - Volcanology

Course Units: 1.0

Volcanic eruptions showcase the beauty, complexity, and destructive forces of nature. This course tackles the questions of why volcanoes erupt (a fundamental question without universal agreement!), where they erupt, how they erupt, how we predict eruptions, and the effects of eruptions on societies. Case studies include famous eruptions such as Vesuvius, Yellowstone, Hawaii, and Mt. St. Helens, as well as some volcanoes being researched by Union faculty and students in the Caribbean, Pacific Northwest, and Mexico. Students learn the different ways that volcanoes are monitored (seismic, gas emissions, hydrothermal waters, deformation). The course highlights ongoing current volcanic activity and monitoring and students engage in multiple role-playing exercises using data to forecast eruptions and deal with a volcanic crisis. Students will become more proficient in science communication and how to convey information to the public through videos, infographics, and other forms of media. This course will include a spring break trip to Kilauea volcano in Hawaii. All students must meet basic term abroad requirements and submit an application. Prerequisite(s): Any 100-level geosciences course or ENS 100 Corequisite(s): GEO 206L ISP: ENS