Earth is a unique planet. It contains wealthy resources and an environment just right for life. Earth’s evolution can be reconstructed from the mineral and rock records. In this course, I will introduce how Earth works to produce and maintain its surface morphology, natural resources, climate, environment and life exemplified by studies on minerals and rocks. Examples of the topics include meteorite vs. Earth, plate tectonics, minerals and rocks, natural resources (petroleum, ore deposits, diamond), climate and environmental changes, human impact, origin of life, and search for life on other planets. Delivery of the course will integrate basic principles and examples from our own backyard (in the circum-Alberta area and sometimes more broadly across Canada), with tours to relevant museums and gardens in U of A’s north campus.
Instructor: Long Li
Dr. Long Li is a professor in the Department of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences at the University of Alberta. He was trained in both geology and environmental sciences. His long-term goal is to understand how tectonic activities have shaped Earth’s resources and surface climate and environment at a variety of time scales over Earth’s history. His research has been specifically focused on geological and biological recycling of carbon, nitrogen and sulphur (the three elements not only essential for life but also crucial to energy, resources, climate and environment) between Earth’s surface and interior based on theoretical, laboratory experimental and field studies.
