Igneous and Metamorphic Petrology

Learning Outcomes

Learning Outcomes

Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:

• Practical experience of rock and mineral identification in hand specimen and in thin-section using a transmitted light microscope.
• Identify the common rock forming minerals of igneous and metamorphic rocks in both hand specimen and thin-section and classify the rock.
• Ability to interpret phase diagrams relevant to igneous systems and petrogenic grids relevant to metamorphic systems on the basis of mineral assemblages recorded in the rock.
• Be able to record, map and interpret the structure of an area of high deformation.
• Identify key textural/micro structural features of igneous and metamorphic rocks and appreciate the significance of such features with regard to geological processes that have operated.
• Understand the magmatic processes that generate the variety of igneous rocks and compositions.
• Ability to make detailed and annotated petrographic sketches from thin-section observation and to summarise the salient features and relate the chemistry of the system and environment of formation.

Methods: Coverage of igneous rock classification (mineralogical/geochemical); the use of geochemistry in petrogenetic concepts; an introduction to phase petrology and the concepts of partial melting and fractional crystallisation; a brief review of the main igneous rock spectrum and their tectonic setting. Introduction to the concept of metamorphic facies as a means of defining P-T conditions

Practicals: Hand specimen and thin-section description of various igneous and some metamorphic rocks.

Fieldwork: recording and mapping an area of high deformation

Teaching and learning methods

Formal lectures: will provide an introduction to the theory underlying metamorphism, phase petrology, igneous rock classification and the use of geochemistry in petrogenetic concepts.

Practical classes & demonstrations: will exemplify the theory and allow you to develop skills in hand specimen and thin section description of various igneous and metamorphic rocks. Practical classes are fully interactive affording hands-on experience of using geological equipment under laboratory conditions. Practical manuals are an integral part of the course.

A week will be spent in the field training in advanced structural techniques.

A wide range of support can be provided for those students who have further or specific learning and teaching needs.

Assessment strategy

Theory examination (30%): A 1 hour written examination on igneous petrology and volcanic processes. One question from 3 must be answered. Tests learning outcomes 1-2.

Igneous/volcanic coursework (30%) in two parts: 1), a practical examination of petrological techniques in igneous systems – based on a full thin section description of an igneous rock (20%) and 2), a quiz testing knowledge of igneous terminology and processes (10%). Tests learning Outcomes 1-3.

Fieldwork Metamorphic coursework (40%): Assessment of notebooks, stereonets, maps and metamorphic/structural work completed on the Anglesey fieldcourse. Tests Learning Outcomes 1-3.

Summative

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

Repeat Information

Repeat type: Internal & External