Volcanic and Mantle Processes

Learning Outcomes

Learning Outcomes

Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:

• Integrate and interpret petrological, elemental and isotopic data.
• Examine and interpret volcanic successions in the field.
• Critically evaluate the processes that generate heterogeneity within the Earth's mantle.
• Understand the mechanisms involved in the generation and evolution of magmas.
• Identify different volcanic products and determine from their characteristics the process involved in their formation.
• Log a volcanic sequence to determine the magmatic evolution and eruption history of a volcano.
• Understand how geochemical and isotopic data are obtained and used to evaluate igneous processes

The Earth's mantle is the reservoir that provides the raw materials for crustal generation. This reservoir has exchanged material with the crust through geological time, leading to the diversity of compositions we observe in volcanism across our planet. In the first half of the module, we examine the main source of magmatism on Earth: the mantle. We investigate the causes of mantle heterogeneity, its geochemical signatures, and how melt is generated in the mantle. Using examples of magmatic systems at mid-ocean ridges, volcanic arcs and mantle hotspots, we explore how elemental variations and radiogenic isotopes can shed light on structure, circulation and storage within the mantle. To understand how elemental abundances vary in volcanic systems, we develop models in practical classes that illustrate the likely processes involved. In the second half of the module, we study how magma is transported through the crust and feeds volcanic eruptions. We cover the drivers, eruption dynamics, and deposits of effusive and explosive eruptions in preparation for a seven-day field course in Tenerife at the end of the module. The fieldwork features spectacular explosive and effusive volcanic formations and presents an ideal natural laboratory to examine pyroclastic deposits and the relationship between caldera development and progressive magmatism.

Lectures: The first eight lectures will provide the theory underlying the structure, petrology and geochemistry of the Earth's mantle. Subsequently, eight lectures will provide the fundamentals of magma transport and storage in the crust as well as eruption dynamics and physical volcanology. References to applicable book chapters and/or relevant journal articles are provided as essential reading for each lecture. Practical sessions: will accompany the lectures to demonstrate applications and allow you to develop appropriate practical skills, including isotopic data analysis, geochemical modelling, and characterisation of volcanic deposits. Field course: A seven-day field course to Tenerife will reinforce the lecture and practical contents and develop your investigative and interpretative field skills. An alternative virtual field course is available if required. A wide range of support can be provided for those students who have further or specific learning and teaching needs.

Summative

This is how we’ll formally assess what you have learned in this module.