ESC3332 - Global dynamics and crustal evolution

Leader(s): Associate Professor Louis Moresi

Offered

Clayton Second semester 2009 (Day)

Synopsis

This unit covers the planetary scale structure and dynamics of the Earth, and the fundamental processes which create 'geology' as a natural consequence of Earth evolution. The unit will provide an understanding of the subtle interplay between Earth structure, planetary cooling, geomagnetism, mantle convection, plate tectonics, continental drift, heat flow, earthquakes, melt generation etc, and the diverse measurements/ models needed to gain this understanding including seismicity, seismic tomography, gravity, changing sea level, post-glacial rebound etc. It will concentrate on an integrated, quantitative, model-based approach to the geosciences.

Assessment

Practicals: 20%
Assignment: 20%
Examination (3 hours): 60%

Contact hours

Two 1-hour lectures and one 3-hour practical per week

Prerequisites

12 credit points at level 2 in ESC, PHS or MTH units.

Prohibitions

GPS3011, GPS3022, GPS3212