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  6. GL1505: EARTH'S MATERIALS

GL1505: EARTH'S MATERIALS (2016-2017)

Last modified: 28 Jun 2018 10:27


Course Overview

Following on from GL1005 this course is an introduction to the petrogenesis of three major rock groups; igneous, metamorphic and sedimentary. Practical classes will centre around the use of polarizing microscope in the identification of the common rock-forming minerals. The relationship between plate tectonics and the petrogenesis of igneous and metamorphic rocks, including types and styles of volcanic eruptions will be addressed. The formation and fill of sedimentary basins and their importance in the accumulation of hydrocarbons is an integral part of the course.

Course Details

Study Type Undergraduate Level 1
Term Second Term Credit Points 15 credits (7.5 ECTS credits)
Campus None. Sustained Study No
Co-ordinators
  • Dr David Muirhead

Qualification Prerequisites

None.

What courses & programmes must have been taken before this course?

  • One of GL1005 The Nature of the Environment Through Geological Time (Studied) or GL1006 The Dynamic Planet (Distance) (Studied) or KL107Z The Dynamic Planet (Passed) or BSc Forestry (Studied)
  • Any Undergraduate Programme (Studied)

What other courses must be taken with this course?

None.

What courses cannot be taken with this course?

  • GL1503 The Materials Forming Our Dynamic Earth (Studied)

Are there a limited number of places available?

No

Course Description

An introduction to the petrogenesis of three major rock groups; igneous, metamorphic and sedimentary. The application of the polarizing microscope in the identification of the common rock-forming minerals. The relationship between plate tectonics and the petrogenesis of igneous amd metamorphic rocks, including types and styles of volcanic eruptions and hazards. The formation and fill of sedimentary basins and their importance in the accumulation of hydrocarbons.

Further Information & Notes

Students with 'A' level or equivalent in geology may be exempt from this pre-requisite at the discretion of course-coordinator/Head of School.

Contact Teaching Time

Information on contact teaching time is available from the course guide.

Teaching Breakdown

More Information about Week Numbers


Details, including assessments, may be subject to change until 30 August 2024 for 1st term courses and 20 December 2024 for 2nd term courses.

Summative Assessments

1st Attempt: 90 minute examination (50%); in-course assessment (50%). In-course assessment will include class tests in optical microscopy and mineral identification.

Resit: Examination (2 hours) including practical section (100%).

Formative Assessment

WebCT-based multiple choice (MCQ) tests with on-line feedback at various time during term. Exercises with solutions during practical classes.

Feedback

MCQ's have already been piloted for GL 1004 during 2009-2010. SCEFS and other comments suggest that students find these extremely valuable, and it is intended to use MCQ tests in this course.

Course Learning Outcomes

None.
 

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