ANU - STUDYAT - Structural Geology

Offered By:

Research School of Earth Sciences

Academic Career:

Undergraduate

Course Subject:

Earth and Marine Science

Offered in:

First Semester, 2010

Unit Value:

6 units

Course Description:

This course is designed to develop an advanced understanding of deformation processes and structures produced by displacement and deformation in the Earth's lithosphere at scales ranging from the tectonic plate scale, down to the crystal lattice scale. Emphasis is placed on understanding (1) the geometry and types of structures produced by complex crustal deformation histories involving contractional, extensional and wrench regimes, (2) the deformation processes which control the microstructural evolution of deformed rocks, (3) factors influencing the strength and mechanical behaviour of the Earth's crust and underlying mantle lithosphere, (4) deformational controls on crustal-scale fluid flow and applications to understanding ore genesis and earthquake processes, and (5) the large-scale geodynamic processes controlling plate motions and crustal deformation.

Learning Outcomes:

On satisfying the requirements of this course, students will have the knowledge and skills to:

1. Recognise, map and interpret the geological structure of deformed continental regimes, from mildly deformed upper crustal regimes to complexly deformed, deeper crustal regimes, using a variety of techniques including geological field observations, drill-hole data, remotely sensed data (including geophysical datasets) and microstructural analysis.
2. Interpret the relative timing of formation of structures, the kinematics of deformation, and the progressive deformation histories in these regimes.
3. interpret stress regimes and fluid pressure histories during continental deformation.
4. Predict the geometry and location of structures at depth or in areas of poor outcrop.
5. Apply an understanding of structural geology in the mining and resource exploration environment.

Indicative Assessment:

Assessment will be based on:

1-hour mid-semester exam (10%; LO 1, 3)
Laboratory assignments and homework problems (30%; LO 1, 2, 4, 5)
Theory exam at the end of semester (45%; LO 1-5)
Report based on Bermagui Field trip (15%; LO 1, 2)

Workload:

Two hours of lectures and three hours of practicals weekly, plus weekend field trip to Bermagui (dates to be negotiated)

Areas of Interest:

Earth and Marine Sciences

Requisite Statement:

EMSC2012 or GEOL2012

Incompatibility:

GEOL2010 and GEOL3002

Prescribed Texts:

Davis, G.H. and Reynolds, S.J. (1996) Structural Geology of Rocks and Regions, 2nd ed, John Wiley and Sons, Inc.

Science Group:

C

Academic Contact:

Professor Cox

Structural Geology and Tectonics EMSC3002 - Details