ESC3201

Deformation and metamorphism of the crust ( 6 points, SCA Band 2, 0.125 EFTSL)

Leader: Dr Roberto Weinberg

Offered:
Clayton First semester 2006 (Day)

Synopsis: Geology is essentially a forensic science, and every geologist needs to know the vital clues to look for in rocks in order to work out how the earth evolved. The unit will: (1) focus on case studies from modern and ancient mountain belts; (2) teach the basic skills necessary to unravel the history of deformation and metamorphism in zones of the Earth's crust affected by tectonism; and (3) show how these observations can be linked and used to infer the large scale evolution of the earth.

Objectives: On completion of this unit students will be able to describe, classify and interpret the significance of both large and small scale structural features of deformed rock sequences; describe and classify rock microstructure, as well as understand basic concepts of deformation and metamorphic processes in rocks; .observe, identify and measure structural elements in the field, construct structural form surface maps, and to apply concepts of geometric, kinematic and dynamic analysis; understand progressive metamorphism in a variety of rock sequences; be able to quantify the conditions of metamorphism; understand the relationships between metamorphism and tectonics; interpret geochronological data from metamorphic terrains; recognise and understand crustal fluid flow and anatexis.

Assessment: Open book theory examination (2 hour): 25% + Open book practical examination (3 hour): 25% + Ongoing assessment of practical exercises submitted after each case study: 50%

Prerequisites: ESC2111 or ESC2122