66304 Earth Materials

Students are introduced to the rocks and minerals that are found at or near the surface of the earth. The subject covers the techniques and methodologies used to identify and classify minerals and rocks in hand specimen and thin section. An introduction to the chemistry of minerals and rocks is also undertaken. Crystal symmetry and Miller Indices; optical theory; use of the polarising microscope; optical properties, chemistry and paragenesis of rock-forming minerals; crystallisation paths of igneous minerals; occurrence, mineralogy and texture of igneous rocks; introduction to nature of magma and its cooling behaviour, magmatic differentiation, sources of magma; igneous rock associations. Types of metamorphism and textures of metamorphic rocks; chemical equilibria and metamorphic mineral reactions; concept of metamorphic zones and facies; metamorphic rock associations. Macroscopic (hand specimen) and microscopic description of minerals and rocks.

Note(s)

This subject may not be offered in 2003.