3 hours. 2 hours lecture and 3 hours lab per week.
Igneous and Metamorphic Petrology
Course Description
Textures, mineralogy, and classification of the common igneous and metamorphic rocks. Origin of magmas and volcanoes and their impact on civilizations; evolutions of continental and oceanic crusts; metamorphic rocks as probes of crustal processes.
Additional Requirements for Graduate Students: Preparation and oral presentation of term paper.
Athena Title
Igneous and Metamorphic Petrol
Prerequisite
GEOL 4020-4020L
Semester Course Offered
Offered fall
Grading System
A - F (Traditional)
Student Learning Outcomes
Students will study the crystallization and formation of igneous rocks, including the role of magma composition, cooling rates, and tectonic settings, and learn how these processes relate to phase equilibria and thermodynamics in natural systems.
Students will develop critical and analytical thinking skills as they analyze rock samples, assess petrogenetic processes, and apply thermodynamic principles to interpret geological data.
Students will work together to solve complex geological problems, fostering leadership and collaboration skills as they engage in discussions, share insights, and propose solutions related to the formation and transformation of rocks under different environmental conditions.
Topical Outline
Topics covered:
Structure of the Earth
Physical Properties of Magmas
Intrusion of magma
Intrusive/Extrusive Forms
Rock Classification
Igneous Rock Associations
Phase Equilibria and Thermodynamics
Magmatic Volatiles
Crystal growth and nucleation
Isotope Geochemistry
Introduction to Metamorphism
Metamorphic Reactions and Facies
Tectonic Aspects of Metamorphism
Metamorphic Fluids
Examination of Individual Metamorphic Facies
Thermobarometry