GEOLOGY AND PETROLEUM GEOLOGY

Credit Points

20

Course Coordinator

Dr M J Hole

Pre-requisites

None

Overview

Topical issues related to Geology and the Environment (e.g. earthquakes, climatic change, global warming, volcanic activity, evolution & mass extinctions, environmental pollution).
An introduction to the fundamental mechanisms which have controlled environmental change throughout Earth’s history.
The use of geological maps in interpreting the 3 dimensional structure of the Earth.
Interpretation of the fossil record with respect to environmental change. Fossil evidence for climatic change.
Environmental issues associated with decommissioning of hydrocarbon installations.
2 one-hour lectures and 1 three-hour practical per week; 1 day field work; 5 one-hour tutorials.
1 two-hour examination (80%), 3 mini assessments (20%).

Credit Points

20

Course Coordinator

Dr M J Hole

Pre-requisites

None

Notes

This course will be strongly recommended for students registered for GL 1004.

Overview

An introduction to the three major rock groups; igneous, metamorphic and sedimentary.
An introduction to the mode of occurrence, and processes of formation, of the three major rock groups.
Identification of the common rock-forming minerals in hand-specimen.
An introduction to systematic crystallography and mineral properties.
The use of the petrological microscope in the identification of the common rock-forming minerals.
2 one-hour lectures and 1 three-hour practical per week; 5 one-hour tutorials, 1 day fieldwork.
1 two-hour examination (80%) three mini assessments (20%).

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Dr G M Walkden

Pre-requisites

None

Notes

Available only to students in programme year 2 or above.

Overview

This introductory course covers the recognition and interpretation of invertebrate fossils and fossil assemblages. It is suitable for all intending physical and biological scientists and provides a broad overview of palaeontology that would also interest non-scientists.

1. Principles: Preservation and taphonomy; recognising species; systematics
   and evolution; recording and handling data.


2. Systematic palaeontology: morphology, evolution and palaeoecology of brachiopods,
   bivalves, cephalopods, trilobites, graptolites, corals, echinoderms and minor
   groups.


3. Interpreting fossil assemblages.

2 lab/lecture sessions per week.
Assessment by course work (40%) and 1 two-hour exam paper (60%). Oral exam for borderline candidates only.

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Dr A Crane

Pre-requisites

GL 1503. GL 1004 strongly recommended.

Notes

Required for students taking 45 or more credit points in Geology at level 2.

Overview

Fundamentals of the interpretation of Geological maps and the common three-dimensional structures of the earth’s crust (building on GL 1004).
Fundamentals of optical microscopy in the identification and classification of igneous and metamorphic rocks (building on GL 1503),
Interpretation of geological data collected in field conditions by individual observation.
Integration of the above three techniques.
2 three-hour laboratory sessions per week (lectures or practical classes as necessary; 1 eight day field course).
1 two-hour practical examination (55%); continual assessment of field course and laboratory assignments (45%).

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Dr J Parnell

Pre-requisites

GL 1503

Overview

The first part of the course covers the origins and characteristics of important sedimentary rock types such as sandstones, mudrocks, limestones, cherts and ironstones. Lectures are supported by practical work on rock specimensand on thin sections using the petrological microscope. The second part of the course combines basic knowledge in the interpretation of ancient depositional environments such as deserts, alluvial fans, rivers, deltas, lakes, shorelines, reefs and deep sea fans.
2 lectures and 2 lab sessions per week.
Assessment by course work (30%) and 1 two-hour exam paper (70%). Oral exam for borderline candidates only.

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Dr C M Rice

Pre-requisites

GL 1503

Overview

The main objective of this practical course is to learn how to describe and identify the rock forming minerals using the petrological microscope. The mineral groups will include olivine, pyroxenes, amphiboles, micas, feldspars, quartz, clay minerals and carbonates and a short course on gemstones will be included. The theoretical background will include a systematic study of the atomic structure, chemical composition and geological occurrence of the rock-forming minerals together with the fundamentals of crystallography, mineral optics and mineral chemistry.

2 one-hour lectures per week, 2 two-hour laboratory sessions per week.
Assessment by course work (25%) and 1 two-hour exam paper (75%). Oral exam for borderline candidates only.

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Dr A Crane

Pre-requisites

GL 2012

Overview

This course is divided into two complementary units:-

1. A 20 hour lecture unit in Geotectonics. This aims to provide a large scale
   overview of the Lithosphere and the geotectonic structures generated by interactions
   between moving Lithospheric Plates.


2. A 23 hour practical unit concerned with the common types of structure that
   are produced in rocks that undergo ductile deformation (eg during mountain
   building); a brief introduction to strain analysis utilising practical experiments
   with shear boxes is also included. The course aims to equip students with
   the skills and basic knowledge necessary for the observation, recording, analysis,
   interpretation and presentation of structural data.

Assessment by course work (20%) and one ninety minute examination (80%).

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Dr A Crane

Pre-requisites

GL 2012

Notes

The assessments from all three course components (1-3 above) are combined to give a single overall course assessment. See also GL 3010 for Joint Honours Course.

Overview

This course shows how Earth History integrates other areas of geological science. Parallel and complementary components comprise 20 hours of lectures and 30 hours of practical.
1) Earth History: The analysis and interpretation of the geological record. Lectures (20 hours) cover the factors controlling the development of sedimentary sequences, the methodology used in analysing these, and then focus on a variety of case studies. Independent work to be completed by students includes one written report and a short verbal presentation at a seminar.
Coursework (10%) and a one-hour examination (35%).
2) Map Interpretation: Practicals (24 hours) use published geological maps and involve specific tasks and problems to be worked on independently or in groups. This work develops the ability to synthesise the large amounts of geological data on maps into plausible petrological, tectonic and palaeogeographical interpretations. Tutorials review the outcomes.
Coursework (10%) and a two-hour examination (35%).
3) Isotope Geology: Two 3 hour workshops on the stratigraphic application of radiogenic isotope geochemistry.
Coursework exercises (10%).

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Dr M J Hole

Pre-requisites

GL 2012 and GL 2508

Overview

This course integrates the petrographic and geochemical characteristics of igneous and metamorphic rocks with plate tectonic theory. Magma, genesis and metamorphism at divergent and convergent plate margins are studied in detail, along with magmatism in intra-plate settings. Practical manipulation of geochemical and petrographic data is introduced as a tool for discriminating the tectonic affinities of igneous rocks in the geological record, and the importance of magmatism in the development of sedimentary basins is emphasised.
2 one-hour lectures and 1 three-hour practical per week.
1 two-hour examination, including practical (60%) and continuous assessment (40%).

Credit Points

7.5

Course Coordinator

Dr A Crane

Pre-requisites

GL 2012

Notes

This course is available only to joint Honours students with Geography, and comprises either the Earth History or the Map Interpretation components of GL 3002.

Overview

1 one-hour (Earth History) or 1 two-hour (Mapping) examination.

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Dr M J Pearson

Pre-requisites

GL 1503

Co-requisites

Only available at Level 3 and to intending graduates on one of the Geology degree programmes.

Overview

The course will develop a wide range of geology-specific and general key skills to enable students to work effectively in a geological environment. Emphasis will be on critical personal development and assessment will have both formative and summative elements.
The course will include: (i) General key skills and the creation and maintenance of a personal development file; (ii) Interview skills, aptitude tests and writing of an effective CV; (iii) Communications skills with emphasis on presentation to a specialist audience; (iv) IT skills comprising (a) searching of library and web-based resources, and (b) the design and publishing of web pages; (v) Numerical skills with emphasis on geological applications of statistical analysis and directional measurement (examinable component).
22 hours of lectures and workshops culminating in a plenary feedback session.
Assessement by course work (80%) and one 45 min examination (20%).

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Dr N H Trewin

Pre-requisites

GL2012

Overview

This field course is based in Helmsdale during September/October. The course provides training in field techniques, data recording and interpretation. Experience is gained in mapping and logging sedimentary sequences. Field recording and interpretation includes structural data, current directions, construction of cross sections, reconstruction of palaeoenvironments, and field palaeontology.
9 day field course, with 3 hours of follow-up tutorials.
Coursework: Field assignments and data manipulation (100%).
NB: This course is mandatory for joint honours students with Geography and Physics.

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Dr M J Pearson

Pre-requisites

GL 2008

Overview

This course introduces students to the geological processes which result in the accumulation of oil and natural gas in rock reservoirs. Controversial ideas about the origin of petroleum are discussed as are the fundamental processes of organic deposition, thermal maturation, migration of fluids and petroleum and the formation of traps for reservoired petroleum. Exploration strategies and the role of the geologist are discussed. Comprehensive practical introductions are given to techniques for remotely determining rock properties including wireline logging and geophysical (seismic, gravity and aeromagnetic) surveys. Most topics form the background for 4th year advanced courses.
27 one-hour lectures and 9 hours of practical and computer-aided tutorial.
1 ninety minute written examination paper (90%) and a computer tutorial (10%).

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Dr G M Walkden

Pre-requisites

GL 2012

Notes

This course is available only to Designated degree students. The course is intended to develop compilation and investigative skills for Designated degree students in their final year.

Overview

A dissertation not exceeding 5,000 words based upon an original geological investigation or a literature review.

Credit Points

15

Course Coordinator

Dr A. Crane

Pre-requisites

GL 3001 Earth Structure, GL 3002 Earth History, GL 3017 Field Techniques 1 (Helmsdale).

Overview

The course comprises 10 days of field work undertaken during the Easter vacation. It consists of 6 days of advanced field observation, mapping, data recording and analysis and 4 days analysis of the structural and petrological characteristics of Caledonian granitoids and their country rock hosts. Maps, records of field observations, field syntheses and interpretations are produced and developed during the course.
Coursework (80%) and one pre-field course essay assignment (20%).

Credit Points

25

Course Coordinator

Dr A Crane

Pre-requisites

Completion of an approved Junior Honours programme in Geology and/or Petroleum Geology or Geoscience, at a standard considered adequate by the Head of the Department.

Overview

Students on this course complete 28 days of independent fieldwork in an area of their choice during the summer vacation that precedes their Senior Honours year of study. The aim is to produce a 1:10,000 scale geological map (or approved alternative) and 5,000 word report on the geology of the area selected. The student’s choice of area is normally finalised during the 2nd half-session of level 3 after discussions with their Mapping Adviser and the Department’s Safety Officer. Areas can be selected anywhere in Britain or abroad, subject only to acceptability from geological, logistical and safety standpoints.
Assessment is based on field maps and note books, clean map copies and the 5,000 word report.

Credit Points

7.5

Course Coordinator

to be announced

Pre-requisites

GL 3014 Skills for Geologists.

Overview

A personal portfolio containing summaries of up to 8 departmental research/ industry seminars, evidence of integrated supplementary background reading and accounts of any geologically – based extra mural personal development activity.
Coursework (a portfolio) (100%) .
NB: This elective will extend through the first half session and part of the second half session, with submission of the finished portfolio at the end of the Easter term.

Credit Points

7.5

Course Coordinator

Dr C M Rice

Pre-requisites

GL 2508 Mineralogy

Overview

Optical mineralogy (reflected), elecron microbeam analysis (SEM+Edax, Microprobe), CL, epifluorescence, X-ray diffraction.
10 hours lectures and 14 hrs practical.
Coursework (20%) and one two-hour examination (80%).

Credit Points

7.5

Course Coordinator

Dr M J Pearson

Pre-requisites

GL 3018 Principles of Petroleum Geology.

Overview

Chemical and thermal tools in understanding and characterising petroleum sources, generation, accumulation and degradation.
10 hours lectures and 10 hours practical.
Coursework (40%) and a two-hour examination (60%).

Credit Points

7.5

Course Coordinator

Dr J Parnell

Pre-requisites

GL 3002 Earth History.

Overview

Theory and application of advanced research techniques in sedimentary basins and their hinterlands.
10 hours lectures and 10 hours practical.
Coursework (40%) and a two-hour examination (60%).

Credit Points

25

Course Coordinator

Dr A Crane

Pre-requisites

Completion of an approved Junior Honours programme in Geology and/or Petroleum Geology, or Geoscience, at a standard considered adequate by the Head of the Department.

Overview

Students complete an independent laboratory investigation, based on geological materials. Each student prepares a short description of their proposed investigation for approval by their project adviser. Students are encouraged to gain “hands-on” experience of some of the Department’s specialist research analytical instruments; they are also required to prepare a 5,000 word report and give a 15 minute oral presentation describing their projects. Assessment is based on the 5,000 word report submitted.
Laboratory-based investigation.
Assessment based on project reports (100%).

Credit Points

12.5

Course Coordinator

Dr C M Rice

Pre-requisites

GL 3017 Field Techniques 1.

Notes

This course is only for students taking a joint degree.

Overview

This field based course covers synthesis and geological modelling and comprises (1) an 8 day field course in North West Scotland or Northern England and (2) a short report and oral presentation on an assigned regional study.

Field courses.
Assessment based on field work reports (100%).

Credit Points

25

Course Coordinator

Dr C M Rice

Pre-requisites

GL 3017 and GL 3512, Field Techniques 1 and 2.

Notes

This course is compulsory for those taking Honours Geology and Petroleum Geology or Honours Geoscience.

Overview

This field-based course covers synthesis and geological modelling and comprises (a) an 8 day field course in North West Scotland or Northern England, (b) a programme of one day field courses and (c) an in depth regional study with written report and oral presentation.
Field courses.
Assessment based on Field work reports (100%).

Credit Points

7.5

Course Coordinator

Professor D I M Macdonald

Pre-requisites

GL3001, GL3002.

Overview

The formation, filling and deformation of sedimentary basins in an Earth systems context.
8 three-hour lecture/practicals.
Coursework (60%) (including an assessed poster) and a two-hour examination (40%).

Credit Points

7.5

Course Coordinator

Dr M J Pearson

Pre-requisites

GL 2508 Mineralogy.

Overview

Earth evolution, element mobility and mineral equilibria in geological systems, mineral stability, geochemistry in field exploration.
10 hours lectures and 10 hours problem – based practicals.
Coursework (20%) and a two-hour examination (80%).

Credit Points

7.5

Course Coordinator

Dr G M Walkden

Pre-requisites

GL 2010 Palaeontology.

Overview

Origin of life, evolutionary mechanisms, extinction, major turning points in vertebrate evolution.

8 two-hour seminars.
Coursework (50%) and a two-hour examination (50%).

Credit Points

7.5

Course Coordinator

Dr N H Trewin

Pre-requisites

GL 2010 Palaeontology.

Overview

Palaeoecological investigation and interpretation related to (1) exceptionally well preserved biotas, (2) microfossils and (3) trace fossils.
12 hours lectures, 15 hours practical and additional web-based learning.
Coursework (20%) and a two-hour examination (80%).

Credit Points

7.5

Course Coordinator

Ms A Schwab

Pre-requisites

GL 3018 Principles of Petroleum Geology.

Overview

Basics on reflection seismic acquisition, processing, interpretation and resolution, as used in the petroleum industry. Practical experience in seismic interpretation.
5 three-hour seminars, 6 hours computer- based practicals and one interpretation exercise.
Coursework (40%) and a two-hour examination (60%).

Credit Points

7.5

Course Coordinator

Dr A Rice

Pre-requisites

GL 2501 Sedimentology.

Overview

Groundwater - its occurrence, flow, exploitation, vulnerability and protection.
10 hours lectures and 12 hours practical/tutorial.
Coursework (20%) and a one and a half-hour examination (80%).

Credit Points

7.5

Course Coordinator

Dr C M Rice

Pre-requisites

GL2508 Mineralogy.

Overview

Essential characteristics of metalliferous (ore) deposits and their genesis.
15 hours lectures and 2 hours practical, 1 field trip.
Coursework (20%) and a two-hour examination (80%).

Credit Points

7.5

Course Coordinator

Professor A Hurst

Pre-requisites

GL 3018 Principles of Petroleum Geology.

Overview

Acquisition and application of geophysical measurements to the characterisation of rocks in boreholes and complementary laboratory analyses.
10 hours lectures and 3 hours computer-based tutorials.
Coursework (25%) and a two-hour examination (75%).

Credit Points

7.5

Course Coordinator

Dr A Rice

Pre-requisites

GL 2501 Sedimentology.

Overview

Exploration, exploitation and environmental issues associated with the extraction of bulk resources.
10 hours lectures and 12 hours practical/tutorials.
Coursework (20%) and a one and a half-hour examination (80%).

Credit Points

7.5

Course Coordinator

Dr N H Trewin

Pre-requisites

GL 2501 Sedimentology.

Overview

The investigation of both the sedimentology of surface environments, and burial diagenesis in subsurface environments.
16 hours lectures and 10 hours practical.
Coursework (20%) and a two-hour examination (80%).

Credit Points

7.5

Course Coordinator

Dr M J Hole

Pre-requisites

GL 3004 Igneous and Metamorphic Petrology.

Overview

Modern and ancient igneous petrogenetic process, crustal growth mechanisms and an overview of the evolution of plate tectonics through time.
15 hours lectures and 5 hours practical.
Coursework (20%) and a two-hour examination (80%).