GEO 261 - Geography of Caves & Karst Topography

Credits: 1
Instructional Contact Hours: 1

Study focuses on the role of solution in forming caves and in landscape formation (karst topography). Formation of stalactites, stalagmites, flowstones and other crystal formations are also studied. Students are required to participate in weekend field trip to Mammoth Cave National Park, Kentucky. Students must pay own expenses.

Prerequisite(s): GEO 111W or any GLG course with a grade of “C” or higher
Corequisite(s): None
Lecture Hours: 15 Lab Hours: 0
Meets MTA Requirement: Natural Science no Lab
Pass/NoCredit: No

Outcomes and Objectives

Demonstrate first hand knowledge of the processes that relate to ground water solution and deposition. Field based learning and interaction with local resource people, allow students to use all their senses in the learning process. It is a real world learning experience.
1. Understand the formation of cave passageways.
2. Understand how cave decorations such as stalactites and stalagmites form.
3. To understand how this environment impacts on the cultural landscape including:
  1. water quality
  2. mass wasting
  3. economic development of caves