This course focuses on a multidisciplinary approach to understand the processes and environments in which magmatic and metamorphic rocks form, including the following topics: 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; the role of fluid phases and the use of trace elements, radiogenic and stable isotopes to constrain magmatic and metamorphic processes. In addition, the rates of processes are explored: are these fast and furious, or slow and steady.
Laboratory: Characterisation and interpretation of microstructures in magmatic and metamorphic rocks using optical and electron microscopes, construction and interpretation of phase diagrams, selected excursions to Canberra and surroundings.

Note: Graduate students attend joint classes with undergraduates but are assessed separately. An extra research paper will be given to Masters level students. 

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

1. Recognize key metamorphic and magmatic minerals in hand specimens and thin sections. Classification of magmatic and metamorphic rocks based on their mineralogy.
2. Reconstruct conditions of rock formation from the texture and composition of minerals
3. Explain the relation of rock forming processes to tectonic environments
4. Construct phase diagrams and use them to interpret rock textures and rock forming processes
5. Explain the recycling of key elements and volatiles in deep Earth cycles.

Assessment will be based on:

• Laboratory work (30%; LO 1, 2, 4 , 5)
• Field excursion report (10%; LO 1-4)
• Theory examination (two tests of 30% each; LO 1, 2, 4)

Two hours of lectures and three hours of practicals weekly, plus one day field trip to Cooma (date to be negotiated)

Bachelor degree; with first year Geology or first year Chemistry

Earth Science/Geology or Chemistry to a first year level. 

EMSC3024