Petrology of System Earth

COURSE OBJECTIVE
The main aim of the course is to develop a deep understanding of petrological processes the context of selected plate tectonic environments. This will entail teaching how to use the main petrographic and geochemical techniques and methods.

COURSE CONTENT
Case studies focusing on the petrological aspects of major geodynamic environments. Petrological variations are at the core of the course but the importance of (isotope) geochemistry and regional tectonics will be stressed as ways of gaining a full understanding of the key processes that control magma genesis and metamorphism. A short field excursion to the Eifel region of Germany will be conducted at the end of the course.

Specific subjects covered will include:
- Introduction of experimental petrology and the importance of phase diagrams
- Magmatism in various tectonic environments
- Extreme metamorphism of the continental and oceanic crust.
- Introduction to geochemical analytical methods - Interpretation of geochemical data

FORM OF TUITION
Lectures with associated class exercises and limited homework. Contact hours: 15 half days of combined lecture-practical classes, a 3-day (including travel) field course and a written exam.

TYPE OF ASSESSMENT
The final mark consists of the following components:
(1) Class room practicals, petrological descriptions and other assignments (35%);
(2) Field note book and contribution to the field course (15%);
(3) Written exam (50%). A minimum mark of 5.5 is required for the written exam in order to pass the course.

COURSE READING
J.D. Winter, 2010. Principles to Igneous and Metamorphic Petrology (2nd Edition). Prentice Hall. Additional literature will be made available on Canvas. ENTRY REQUIREMENTS Inleiding mineralogie (AB_450157) and Mineralogie en Petrologie (AB_1081) are prerequisit for this course.

TARGET AUDIENCE
Third year Bsc Earth Science students in the context of the Minor Solid Earth.

REGISTRATION PROCEDURE
Fieldwork costs have to be contributed in advance. Details will be communicated via Canvas.