GEOS3110

Igneous Petrology & Crustal Evolution

10 Units 3000 Level Course

Available in 2014

Callaghan Campus Semester 2
Distance Education - Callaghan Semester 2

Previously offered in 2013, 2012, 2011, 2010, 2009, 2008, 2006, 2005, 2004

The first section of this course provides a detailed analysis of the major tectonic and petrological processes involved in the generation of the major rock groups on the planet (basalts, andesites, granites). The second examines the changes in continental building processes through time, from Archaean to present, using the Australian continent as the example.

Objectives On successful completion of the course students will:

1. Develop a broad overview of the geological discipline.
2. Understand how the fundamental aspects of geology interrelate.
2. Develop problem solving abilities
3. Through a bank of knowledge, evaluate competing models.
4. Gain experience through laboratories and reports/assignments, which develop written and interpersonal communication skills.
Content The course is structured in the following order:
1. geochemical principles and computer modelling
2. petrogenesis of basalts at mid-ocean ridges, oceanic islands, subduction zones and backarc basins
3. petrogenesis of andesites at destructive plate margins
4. petrogenesis of granites at destructive plate margins.
5. petrogenesis of Archaean granites
6. Modern plate tectonic processes: principles and applications
7. Australian continental growth in the Mesozoic
8. Australian continental growth in the Paleozoic
9. Australian continental growth in the Proterozoic
10. Australian continental growth in the Archaean
Replacing Course(s) NA
Transition NA
Industrial Experience 0
Assumed Knowledge GEOS2170
Modes of Delivery Distance Learning : IT Based
Flexible Delivery / Student Centred Learning
Internal Mode
Teaching Methods Problem Based Learning
Field Study
Lecture
Assessment Items
Examination: Formal
Laboratory Exercises
Contact Hours Laboratory: for 3 hour(s) per Week for 12 weeks
Lecture: for 3 hour(s) per Week for 13 weeks
Timetables 2014 Course Timetables for GEOS3110