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.

There will be a 2 day field trip to Bermagui.  Students are required to pay a contribution towards the cost of the field trip; in 2011 it was $100.  Payment may be made at the Cashier,College of Science (Bld 42), or online at ScienceShop http://scienceshop.anu.edu.au/

Note: Graduate students attend joint classes with undergraduates (EMSC3002) but will be assessed separately.

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.

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)

Graduate students attend joint classes with undergraduates (EMSC3002) but will be given additional assessment which will be agreed upon in the first week of semester.

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

Bachelor degree

EMSC3002

Undertaking EMSC2012 / EMSC6031, Introduction to Structural and Field Geology, or an equivalent course, or professional experience would be an advantage.

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

Mc Clay, K.R., The Mapping of Geological Structures, John Wiley and Sons, 1999.