Magmatic processes and products
Professor Ian Nicholls
6 points * Eleven weeks lecture/practical coursework usually first semester * 1-day field excursion (Western District volcanic field) * Prerequisites: ESC2022 * Prohibitions: ESC3011, ESC3022, ESC3051, ESC3062 (refer to department for advice)
Objectives This subject aims to provide basic information on the behaviour of magmas in igneous processes and on the global tectonic settings in which they occur; introduce the chemical principles behind the behaviour of the elements and key isotopic systems during the formation of magmas; provide an introduction to the detailed study and interpretation of igneous rocks, their mineralogy, major and trace element chemistry, textural characteristics and modes of origin.
Synopsis Igneous petrology examines the origin of magmas by melting of the earth's mantle and crust; magma transport, emplacement and crystallisation; phase equilibria and geochemical mass balance in magmatic systems; magma sources and controls on magma genesis in global tectonic settings. Igneous geochemistry includes the principles of the partitioning behaviour of element groups, especially at trace levels, in terms of the chemistry and structures of crystals and melts; trace element and isotopic ratio systematics of magmas and their sources; quantitative trace element modelling of magmatic processes. Practical exercises will emphasise the mineralogy, textures and geochemistry of volcanic and intrusive rocks from a variety of tectonic settings, and also examine the basics of trace element modelling.
Assessment Practical work: 30% * Short tests: 10% * Field excursion: 20% * Final examination: 40%
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