ENERGY AND CLIMATE

ENVIRST/GEOSCI 411

A critical examination of the full spectrum of renewable and nonrenewable energy options, from the unifying perspective of the Earth systems that govern their use. Energy conversion and efficiency, consumption patterns and trends, and environmental consequences of energy production and use.

BSE/ENVIRST 367

Learn about the state-of-the-art in renewable energy applications including biomass for heat, electric power and liquid fuels as well as geo-energy sources such as wind, solar, and hydro power. Practice engineering calculations of power and energy availability of renewable energy sources and learn about requirements for integrating renewable energy sources into production, distribution and end-use systems.

ME 472

Thermodynamic analysis of energy conversion systems with emphasis on efficiency and greenhouse gas emissions; basic economic analysis of energy systems; radiative energy exchange with participating atmosphere; global energy balance; electricity production and transportation sustainability.

CIVENGR/GLE 520

Key scientific concepts related to fossil and renewable energy resources. Apply the fundamentals of thermodynamics and chemical kinetics at solid interfaces to better understand the science behind using fossil and renewable energy resources. Evaluate the impacts of existing and emerging energy technologies on the environment.

ENVIRST/GEOG 127

An introduction to natural environmental systems, emphasizing the interconnections between the systems of the solid earth (minerals, rocks, soils), the hydrosphere (water in all its forms), the biosphere, and the atmosphere. Emphasizes connections between basic concepts and specific environmental issues through hands-on case studies, lab projects, and field trips to collect samples and observations for lab projects.