Undergraduate - UnitESC3421 - Volcanology, igneous petrology and geochemistry

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Synopsis

Physical volcanology: will address volcanic eruption styles and processes, and the variety and characteristics of eruption products. Igneous petrology: will include material on the petrology and geochemistry of the Earth's mantle and crust, their melting to generate silicate magmas and the emplacement of these magmas in and on the crust; also the basics of trace element and isotope geochemistry applied to the understanding of these processes.

Outcomes

On completion of this unit, the student will have a knowledge of: the nature of melting processes within the Earth's interior and the way magmas move toward the surface, fill magma chambers, undergo crystallization and erupt; the physical processes which underlie volcanic activity, involving a range of magma types; the field occurrence and mineralogical/chemical nature of a range of products of magmatic activity, with emphasis on volcanic products; the distinctive geochemical features of volcanic rocks in the various global tectonic environments, and the significance of these features in terms of magma sources and evolution processes.

Assessment

Practical work: 30%
Fieldwork: 20%
Examination (3 Hours): 50%

Students must pass the theory examination to achieve an overall pass grade. Students who do not pass the theory examination will receive a mark of 45% unless their aggregate mark is lower, in which case that mark will be recorded.

Chief examiner(s)

Professor Ray Cas

Contact hours

One 2-hour lecture and one 3-hour practical class per week and one 3-day field excursion

Prerequisites

ESC2111 and ESC2122, or by permission from the Head of School

Prohibitions

ESC3211, EC3212