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Giovanni Bertotti

Are you fascinated by Geosciences and willing to take the challenge of predicting the nature and behavior of the Earth subsurface? This is your course!

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Are you fascinated by Geosciences and willing to take the challenge of predicting the nature and behavior of the Earth subsurface? This is your course!

In a voyage through the Earth, you will explore the Earth interior and master the processes forming mountains and sedimentary basins. You will understand how the sediments are formed, transported, deposited and deformed. You will acquire basic knowledge on the two mostimportant sources of subsurface energy: hydrocarbons and geothermal! Key knowledge in times of global change and energy transition!

The course focuses on fundamental processes, exploring their nature and quantitative interactions. It will show you how to use the acquired knowledge to predict the nature and behavior of the Earth subsurface.

This is your ideal first step as a future Geoscientists or professional to upgrade your knowledge in the domain of Earth Sciences. Skilled professionals are key for the safe and responsible use of the Earth subsurface.

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What's inside

Learning objectives

  • The basics of plate tectonics
  • Processes which control the formation of mountains and sedimentary basins
  • How sediments are formed, transported and deposited
  • How rocks are deformed and how knowledge of deformation increases the reliability of subsurface predictions
  • Hydrocarbon geology
  • Geology of geothermal energy (from high to very low temperatures)

Syllabus

Week 1: Warming up. The three main rock types, the structure of the Earth and plate tectonics
Week 2: Horizontal deformations, vertical movements and the formation of mountains and basins
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Week 3: Climate and how siliciclastic sediments are produced and transported
Week 4: Deposition in the marine domain
Week 5: Hydrocarbon geology
Week 6: Geology of geothermal energy
Weeks 7 & 8:Round-up

Good to know

Know what's good
, what to watch for
, and possible dealbreakers
Develops a comprehensive understanding of the Earth interior, including mountains and sedimentary basins, for a strong foundation in geosciences
Builds a solid foundation in the key sources of subsurface energy: hydrocarbons and geothermal energy
Explores topics that are highly relevant to professionals seeking to embrace global change and energy transition
Designed for future geoscientists and professionals in Earth Sciences
Taught by Giovanni Bertotti, a recognized instructor in the field of Geosciences

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Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Geoscience: the Earth and its Resources with these activities:
Read 'The Earth: A Very Short Introduction' by Martin Redfern
Provides a comprehensive overview of the Earth's structure, composition, and evolution.
Show steps
  • Read each chapter thoroughly, making notes of key concepts.
  • Summarize the main ideas of each chapter in your own words.
Participate in a study group to discuss course concepts
Facilitates deeper understanding through peer discussions and reinforces learning through teaching.
Browse courses on Collaborative Learning
Show steps
  • Form a study group with classmates.
  • Meet regularly to discuss course materials and work through problems together.
Create a geologic cross-section of a mountain range
Develops an understanding of the processes involved in mountain formation and the techniques used to represent them.
Show steps
  • Gather data on the geology of a mountain range, including rock types, structural features, and topography.
  • Construct a geologic map of the area.
  • Draw a cross-section through the map, showing the distribution of rock units and structures.
Five other activities
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Show all eight activities
Attend a conference or webinar on geosciences
Provides opportunities to connect with professionals in the field and learn about current research and industry trends.
Show steps
  • Identify and register for a relevant conference or webinar.
  • Attend the event and actively participate in discussions.
Solve problems related to sedimentary deposition
Reinforces understanding of the factors that control sediment deposition and the characteristics of sedimentary rocks.
Show steps
  • Review the principles of sediment transport and deposition.
  • Practice solving problems related to the deposition of different types of sediments.
Explore online tutorials on hydrocarbon exploration
Provides additional insights into the techniques and technologies used in hydrocarbon exploration.
Show steps
  • Identify reputable online resources that offer tutorials on hydrocarbon exploration.
  • Follow the tutorials and complete the exercises provided.
Read 'Geothermal Energy: Renewable Energy and the Environment' by Ibrahim Dincer
Expands knowledge of geothermal energy sources and their potential for sustainable energy production.
Show steps
  • Read the book and take notes on key concepts related to geothermal energy.
  • Summarize the chapters and discuss the implications of geothermal energy for the future.
Develop a presentation on the geology of a specific geothermal field
Enhances understanding of the geological factors that influence geothermal potential and develops communication skills.
Browse courses on Geology
Show steps
  • Research the geology of a specific geothermal field, including its geological setting, rock types, and geothermal features.
  • Prepare a presentation that includes maps, diagrams, and data.
  • Rehearse the presentation and present it to a group.

Career center

Learners who complete Geoscience: the Earth and its Resources will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Geoscientist
A Geoscientist researches the physical properties of the Earth and its atmosphere and applies those findings to various science, engineering, and manufacturing applications. Geoscientists are responsible for studying weather patterns, erosion and deposition, water movement, and the changes in the Earth's surface, the atmosphere, and the oceans. This course on the Earth and its resources can help build a foundation for you as a Geoscientist. It explores processes that control the formation of mountains and basins and how sediments are formed, transported, deposited, and deformed. You'll also learn the basics of plate tectonics and what contributes to hydrocarbon geology and geothermal energy.
Geochemist
A Geochemist studies the chemical composition of the Earth's rocks, soils, water, and atmosphere. They use their findings to understand the Earth's history, evolution, and the impact of human activities on the environment. This course on the Earth and its resources can be a solid start to your career as a Geochemist. It provides you with an overview of the Earth's interior, the processes that form mountains and basins, and how sediments are formed, transported, deposited, and deformed.
Geophysicist
A Geophysicist uses the principles of physics to understand the Earth's structure, composition, and dynamics. They study the Earth's magnetic field, gravity, heat flow, and seismic waves to learn about the Earth's interior, its plate tectonics, and its natural resources. The course on the Earth and its resources can help you build a solid foundation in Geophysics. It will introduce you to the basics of plate tectonics, the processes that control the formation of mountains and basins, and the basics of hydrocarbon geology and geothermal energy. The course will also provide you with a good understanding of the Earth's interior and its physical properties.
Hydrogeologist
A Hydrogeologist studies the distribution and movement of groundwater. They use their findings to assess the availability of groundwater resources, to protect groundwater quality, and to mitigate the effects of groundwater contamination. The course on the Earth and its resources would be a helpful introduction to your studies in Hydrogeology. In this course, you will learn about the Earth's interior, the processes that form mountains and basins, and how sediments are formed, transported, deposited, and deformed. You will also get an introduction to hydrocarbon geology and geothermal energy.
Petroleum Geologist
A Petroleum Geologist explores for and extracts petroleum from the Earth's subsurface. They use their knowledge of geology and geophysics to identify potential oil and gas reservoirs and to develop strategies for extracting the petroleum from the reservoir. The course on the Earth and its resources provides you with the foundational knowledge you need to succeed as a Petroleum Geologist. The course covers the basics of plate tectonics, the processes that control the formation of mountains and basins, and how sediments are formed, transported, deposited, and deformed. You will also learn about the basics of hydrocarbon geology and how to use seismic data to identify potential oil and gas reservoirs.
Geotechnical Engineer
A Geotechnical Engineer designs, constructs, and maintains structures that interact with the Earth. They use their knowledge of soil and rock mechanics to ensure that these structures are safe and stable.
Mining Engineer
A Mining Engineer designs, constructs, and operates mines. They use their knowledge of geology, mining engineering, and mineral processing to ensure that mines are safe and profitable.
Environmental Engineer
An Environmental Engineer designs, constructs, and operates systems to protect the environment. They use their knowledge of engineering, chemistry, and biology to develop solutions to environmental problems like pollution, climate change, and water scarcity.
Civil Engineer
A Civil Engineer designs, constructs, and maintains infrastructure projects such as roads, bridges, and buildings. They use their knowledge of structural engineering, materials science, and soil mechanics to ensure that these projects are safe and efficient.
Geospatial Analyst
A Geospatial Analyst uses geographic information systems (GIS) to analyze and visualize data. They use their knowledge of GIS and spatial analysis to solve problems in fields such as urban planning, environmental management, and transportation planning.
GIS Technician
A GIS Technician uses geographic information systems (GIS) to create and maintain maps and other geospatial data. They use their knowledge of GIS and cartography to ensure that these maps and data are accurate and up-to-date.
Environmental Scientist
An Environmental Scientist studies the environment and its interactions with human activities. They use their knowledge of ecology, chemistry, and biology to develop solutions to environmental problems like pollution, climate change, and water scarcity.
Natural Resources Manager
A Natural Resources Manager oversees the management of natural resources such as forests, water, and minerals. They use their knowledge of ecology, economics, and public policy to ensure that these resources are used sustainably.
Sustainability Consultant
A Sustainability Consultant helps organizations to reduce their environmental impact and improve their sustainability performance. They use their knowledge of sustainability, environmental management, and business strategy to develop and implement sustainability initiatives.
Climate Scientist
A Climate Scientist studies the Earth's climate and its interactions with human activities. They use their knowledge of meteorology, oceanography, and atmospheric chemistry to understand the causes and effects of climate change.

Reading list

We've selected 35 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Geoscience: the Earth and its Resources.
This classic text provides a comprehensive overview of the fundamental principles of geology, including the Earth's structure, composition, and history. It valuable resource for students and professionals alike.
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of geoscience, including the Earth's interior, plate tectonics, and the formation of mountains and sedimentary basins.
This textbook in geology provides an undergraduate-level introduction to igneous and metamorphic petrology, focusing on the classification, formation, and evolution of rocks.
Provides a quantitative introduction to structural geology, which is essential for understanding the course material on mountain formation and sedimentary basin evolution.
Provides a comprehensive overview of structural geology, including deformation and rock mechanics, which is essential for understanding the course material on mountain formation and sedimentary basin evolution.
Covers the geological aspects of geothermal energy exploration and development, which is directly relevant to the course material on geothermal energy.
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of physical geology, including the Earth's interior, plate tectonics, and the formation of mountains and sedimentary basins.
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of structural geology and tectonics, which is essential for understanding the course material on mountain formation and sedimentary basin evolution.
This textbook provides a detailed account of the theory of plate tectonics and its implications for the Earth's geology. It is an excellent resource for students who wish to gain a deeper understanding of this topic.
This textbook comprehensively covers the subject of hydrocarbon geology and addresses the subject from a global perspective; an ideal resource for those studying or working in the field.
Covers the processes involved in the formation, transportation, and deposition of sediments, which is directly relevant to the course material on sedimentary basins.
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of plate tectonics, which is fundamental to understanding the course material on mountain formation and sedimentary basins.
Provides a practical guide to petroleum exploration and production, which complements the course material on hydrocarbon geology.
Provides an accessible introduction to plate tectonics, which is fundamental to understanding the course material on mountain formation and sedimentary basins.
Provides an introduction to the key microstructures found in rocks, covering basic concepts, processes, and techniques of microstructural analysis.
Provides a comprehensive overview of petroleum geology, including the exploration, production, and transportation of oil and gas. It valuable resource for students and professionals who work in the petroleum industry.
This advanced textbook covers the theory and mathematics of geodynamics. It would be a useful reference for students who want to learn more about the mathematical models used to describe the Earth's interior.
While this book focuses primarily on the atmosphere and ocean, it also provides valuable background information on the Earth's interior, including the structure and composition of the Earth's crust and mantle.
Provides a comprehensive overview of geochemistry, including the chemical composition of the Earth, the processes that control its distribution, and the applications of geochemistry to various fields. It valuable resource for students and professionals who work in the field of geochemistry.
Provides a comprehensive overview of geophysics, including the physical properties of the Earth, the methods used to study them, and the applications of geophysics to various fields. It valuable resource for students and professionals who work in the field of geophysics.
Provides a comprehensive overview of geomorphology, including the processes that shape the Earth's surface. It valuable resource for students and professionals who work in the field of geomorphology.
Provides a comprehensive overview of hydrogeology, including the occurrence, movement, and quality of groundwater. It valuable resource for students and professionals who work in the field of hydrogeology.
Provides a comprehensive overview of soil science, including the properties, formation, and classification of soils. It valuable resource for students and professionals who work in the field of soil science.
Provides a comprehensive overview of oceanography, including the physical, chemical, and biological properties of the oceans. It valuable resource for students and professionals who work in the field of oceanography.
Provides a comprehensive overview of atmospheric science, including the processes that govern the Earth's atmosphere. It valuable resource for students and professionals who work in the field of atmospheric science.
This textbook covers the basics of earthquakes and volcanoes, including the different types of earthquakes and volcanoes, the causes of earthquakes and volcanoes, and the effects of earthquakes and volcanoes on the Earth's surface. It would be a useful reference for students who want to learn more about the earthquakes and volcanoes of the Earth.
This textbook covers the basics of the Earth's climate system, including the different components of the climate system, the interactions between the different components of the climate system, and the effects of the climate system on the Earth's surface. It would be a useful reference for students who want to learn more about the climate system of the Earth.
This textbook covers the basics of the oceans, including the different parts of the oceans, the circulation of the oceans, and the life in the oceans. It would be a useful reference for students who want to learn more about the oceans of the Earth.
This textbook covers the basics of the atmosphere, including the different parts of the atmosphere, the circulation of the atmosphere, and the weather and climate of the Earth. It would be a useful reference for students who want to learn more about the atmosphere of the Earth.
This textbook covers the basics of sustainability, including the different concepts of sustainability, the challenges to sustainability, and the solutions to sustainability. It would be a useful reference for students who want to learn more about the sustainability of the Earth.

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