EMSC6024 Magmatism and Metamorphism

Offered By	RSES Admin
Academic Career	Graduate Coursework
Course Subject	Earth and Marine Science
Offered in	First Semester, 2009 and First Semester, 2010
Unit Value	6 units
Course Description	This course focuses on: Multidisciplinary approach to understand the processes and environments in which magmatic and metamorphic rocks form. Reading of hard rocks. The relations between crystallisation and deformation in metamorphic rocks and their link to evolution of orogens. Reconstruction of plate tectonic processes from detailed investigation at a grain scale. Construction and detailed interpretation of phase diagrams and their use to constrain nature and composition of fluid phases. Rates of processes: are these fast and furious, or slow and steady: the use of trace elements, radiogenic and stable isotopes to constrain magmatic and metamorphic processes. Note: Graduate students attend joint classes with undergraduates but are assessed separately. An extra research paper will be given to Masters level students.
Learning Outcomes	On completion of this course students will achieve: Understanding of the characterisation and interpretation of microstructures in magmatic and metamorphic rocks using optical and electron microscopes. Construction and interpretation of phase diagrams. Expertise in using spreadsheets for petrologic calculations and data manipulation, and graphic programs for display of results. Formulation and testing of working hypotheses.
Indicative Assessment	Assessment will be based on: Laboratory work (20%; LO 1, 2, 4, 5) Field excursion report (20%; LO 1-4) Theory examination (two tests of 30% each; LO 1, 2, 4)
Workload	Two hours of lectures and three hours of practicals weekly, plus one day field trip to Cooma (date to be negotiated)
Course Classification(s)	AdvancedAdvanced courses are designed for students having reached 'first degree' level of assumed knowledge, which provide a deep understanding of contemporary issues; or 'second degree' and higher levels of knowledge; or for transition to research training programs. and TransitionalTransitional courses are designed for students from a broad range of backgrounds and learning achievements, which provide for the acquisition of generic skills; or an informed understanding of contemporary issues; or fundamental knowledge for transition to Advanced or Specialist courses.
Areas of Interest	Earth and Marine Sciences
Eligibility	Bachelor degree; with first year Geology or first year Chemistry
Requisite Statement	Geology or Chemistry to a first year level.
Academic Contact	Dr Joerg Hermann

The information published on the Study at ANU 2009 website applies to the 2009 academic year only. All information provided on this website replaces the information contained in the Study at ANU 2008 website.