ERB206 Petrology
To view more information for this unit, select Unit Outline from the list below. Please note the teaching period for which the Unit Outline is relevant.
| Unit code: | ERB206 |
|---|---|
| Prerequisite(s): | ERB205 |
| Equivalent(s): | NQB411 |
| Credit points: | 12 |
| Timetable | Details in HiQ, if available |
| Availabilities |
|
| CSP student contribution | $1,118 |
| Domestic tuition unit fee | $4,680 |
| International unit fee | $5,760 |
Unit Outline: Semester 2 2024, Gardens Point, Internal
| Unit code: | ERB206 |
|---|---|
| Credit points: | 12 |
| Pre-requisite: | ERB205 |
| Equivalent: | NQB411 |
| Coordinator: | Balz Kamber | balz.kamber@qut.edu.au |
Overview
Igneous and metamorphic rocks comprise the bulk of the Earth and are formed by geological processes, many of which cannot be directly observed as they occur at relatively high temperature and pressure within the Earth. The structure, texture, mineralogy and chemical composition of igneous and metamorphic rocks provide the fundamental clues from which the origin of these rocks can be interpreted. This information can then be used to address larger scale geologic issues, such as the tectonic development of mountain ranges or plate boundaries, and magma source regions and eruptive history of volcanoes.
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this unit you will be able to:
- Demonstrate a sound knowledge of the key processes involved in the generation of igneous and metamorphic rocks.
- Apply universally adopted methods (for example the IUGS system) of rock classification and nomenclature.
- Recognise and describe mineral assemblages and textures of igneous and metamorphic rocks, in field and laboratory settings using both hand specimen and optical microscopic techniques.
- Analyse and interpret the textural, mineralogical and geochemical features of rocks to explain their origin and evolution
- Formulate, test and summarise hypotheses using field and laboratory observations.
- Prepare maps and reports that communicate petrologic observations in a professional manner
Content
In this unit, we will introduce the fundamental principles of petrology. The petrology of metamorphic rocks focusses on the mineralogy of the equilibrium assemblage as a function of different pressure-temperature conditions and bulk composition. Using real-world mineral and rock compositions, we will explore the utility of internally consistent thermodynamic modelling to understand the time-temperature-depth trajectories experienced by roots of mountain belts. For igneous rocks, petrologic principles include the three main ways melting of rock within the Earth generates magmas, with emphasis on mantle melting that produces a wide variety of basaltic magmas. Binary and ternary phase diagrams, geochemical principles of high temperature silicate systems are discussed. Magmatic processes from deep to shallow levels in the crust, from melting and magma transport to storage and eruption are examined. The role of water in magma generation at subduction-related settings is introduced. Field studies are included in this component.
Learning Approaches
Teaching and learning strategies include formal real-time lectures, recorded lectures, recorded practical background videos, real-time practical sessions, collaborative workshops and fieldwork. Interactive lectures introduce the central concepts of petrology and utilise peer-to-peer learning to apply these concepts. Practical exercises are structured in two parts. The formal practical session is based on the examination of specific rock samples to answer given scientific questions. The second part emphasizes self-study, in which you expand your knowledge via the examination of a variety of rock samples that have complex petrographic/lithologic features. The metamorphic petrology component is structured around the development of a geologic map, using petrographic observation of a suite of metamorphic rocks and thermobarometric estimates from selected chemical data. This requires microscopy examination of thin sections in addition to the time-tabled practical sessions and individually performed modelling. A compulsory field excursion (subject to Covid-19 restrictions) will examine principally igneous rocks and introduces mapping extends laboratory observations through application, formulation and testing of hypotheses. A report and map based on this fieldwork develops your ability to communicate outcomes in a professional manner.
Feedback on Learning and Assessment
You will receive oral feedback based on self-assessment of your practical assignments guided by posted answer keys on a weekly basis. Oral and written feedback will be provided on examinations and written feedback (formative and summative) on project reports.
Assessment
Overview
There are three assessments tasks spread across the semester. They successively build academic knowledge (written examination), develop real-world skills (applied field project), and further problem solving with the metamorphic mapping and petrology project.
Unit Grading Scheme
7- point scale
Assessment Tasks
Assessment: Examination (written)
Theory - Igneous Petrology and Petrography (Summative)
Assessment: Field Project (applied)
Igneous Field Trip Project Report (Formative/summative) and Field Map
This is an assignment for the purposes of an extension.
Assessment: Problem Solving Task
Metamorphic Petrology and Petrography (Summative)
Academic Integrity
Students are expected to engage in learning and assessment at QUT with honesty, transparency and fairness. Maintaining academic integrity means upholding these principles and demonstrating valuable professional capabilities based on ethical foundations.
Failure to maintain academic integrity can take many forms. It includes cheating in examinations, plagiarism, self-plagiarism, collusion, and submitting an assessment item completed by another person (e.g. contract cheating). It can also include providing your assessment to another entity, such as to a person or website.
You are encouraged to make use of QUT’s learning support services, resources and tools to assure the academic integrity of your assessment. This includes the use of text matching software that may be available to assist with self-assessing your academic integrity as part of the assessment submission process.
Further details of QUT’s approach to academic integrity are outlined in the Academic integrity policy and the Student Code of Conduct. Breaching QUT’s Academic integrity policy is regarded as student misconduct and can lead to the imposition of penalties ranging from a grade reduction to exclusion from QUT.
Requirements to Study
Costs
Costs:
Students will be required to purchase safety glasses (approximately $ 7 to $12) for use while collecting rock samples and a hand lens ( approximately $15). There may be a minor cost associated with the field trip for accommodation and food .
Resources
Required Text:
Hefferan, K and O'Brien, J (2010) Earth Materials, UK: Wiley-Blackwell (online version
Recommended Text (subject to timely arrival in QUT Bookshop):
Sanders, I (2018) Introducing Metamorphism: Dunedin Academic Press, Edinburgh UK
Additional Relevant Texts
1. Jerram, D and Petford, N (2011) The Field Description of Igneous rocks 2nd Edition, Wiley
2. Blatt, H, Tracy, R and Owens, B (2006) Petrology: Igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic. New York: WH Freeman
3. Philpotts, AR (1989) Petrography of Igneous and Metamorphic Rocks, New Jersey: Prentice Hall
4. Bucher, K and Grapes, R (2011). Petrogenesis of metamorphic rocks. Springer Science & Business Media ISBN 978-3-540-74169-5 (on-line version).
Costs:
Students will be required to purchase safety glasses (approximately $ 7 to $12) for use while collecting rock samples and a hand lens ( approximately $15). There may be a minor cost associated with the field trip for accommodation and food .
Risk Assessment Statement
Workplace Health and Safety requirements relevant to this unit relate particularly to fieldwork. A risk assessment is undertaken for the field excursion in accord with SEF requirements. You will be provided with safety guidelines prior to each trip. Daily reminders are given at the beginning of each field day. A diary is kept with regard to all safety reminders and issues. A qualified first aid officer accompanies each trip in accord with University guidelines.
Practical classes and fieldwork are subject to current COVID-19 social distancing protocols as updated weekly by QUT. Practical sessions are scheduled to start from Week 1.