GEOL 5201 - Igneous & Metamorphic Petrology

In second year geology, you are starting to build a breadth of knowledge in the geological sciences. More importantly, you are starting to learn the material which will make you a practicing geoscientist. All subjects are related and interconnected; you must now build on the knowledge learn in previous courses. An introduction to the basic concepts of rock-forming processes in igneous and metamorphic environments. This includes concepts related to identification, classification and origin of volcanic rocks, igneous intrusions, and metamorphic rocks associated with plate collisions, burial and intrusions. More importantly, you will gain an overview and understanding of the fundamental geologic processes that form these rocks. While what we (mostly) see at the Earth’s surface is sedimentary units; the mantle and major portions of the Earth’s crust have been formed and modified by igneous and metamorphic activity. Therefore, an understanding of these activities is essential as a starting point for understanding the Earth. Also, the processes that formed these rocks are exciting and fun to study!

Requisites:
Credit Hours: 5
Repeat/Retake Information: May not be retaken.
Lecture/Lab Hours: 3.0 lecture, 2.0 laboratory
Grades: Eligible Grades: A-F,WP,WF,WN,FN,AU,I
Learning Outcomes:

Graduate students are expected to perform at a higher level than undergraduates and must be able to better synthesize information.
Graduate students will answer three additional essay questions on exams to demonstrate their superior level of understanding and capability of synthesis.
Be able to examine igneous/metamorphic rocks and using the techniques above, be capable of interpreting parameters of their respective geologic environments of formation.
Be able to plot and interpret geochemical and mineralogical data on petrologic diagrams.
Recognize major igneous and metamorphic minerals and textures in hand specimen and thin section.
Understand geochemical and phase diagrams related to igneous and metamorphic rocks.
Understand geologic processes that lead to the formation and development of igneous and metamorphic rocks.