IGNEOUS AND METAMORPHIC PETROLOGY
Catalog Entry
GEOL 312. Igneous and Metamorphic Petrology Two hours lecture; six hours laboratory
(4).
Prerequisite: GEOL 310.
Introduction to composition, texture, classification, origin, evolution and distribution of igneous and metamorphic rocks based on established field relationships and experimental determinations. Laboratory emphasis on hand samples and thin-sections.
Detailed Description of Content of Course
Igneous and Metamorphic Petrology encompasses the study of the composition, texture,
classification, origin, evolution and distribution of igneous and metamorphic rocks.
Topics include:
1. Petrography, composition, classification, and field relationships of igneous rocks.
2. Origin and characteristics of igneous rock suites formed in various tectonic environments,
including mid-ocean ridge, ocean island, continental and oceanic arc settings.
3. Crystal-liquid-vapor equilibria in magmatic systems.
4. Magma generation, diversification, and ascent.
5. Petrography, composition, classification, and field relationships of metamorphic
rocks. 6. Mineralogical aspects of metamorphic systems.
7. Basic thermodynamics, phase equilibria, and geochemical techniques employed in
the study of igneous and metamorphic rocks.
8. Petrological evidence for pressure-temperature-composition relationships in Earth鈥檚
crust and mantle.
9. Identification of minerals and rocks in hand specimen and thin section.
10. The use of minerals and textures as seen in thin section to interpret the origin
and history of igneous and metamorphic rocks.
Detailed Description of Conduct of Course
The course includes two hours of lecture and six hours of laboratory a week. Lecture
presents the basic information of petrology. The student is asked to read related
journal articles to supplement lecture. Laboratory includes the use of hand samples
and thin-sections to examine each of the rock groups, and problem sets to provide
practice in the use of quantitative and geochemical methods of study. Detailed labs
are included on rock identification and classification; thin-section examination,
with an emphasis on recognition of minerals and fabrics; and the recognition of rocks
in a field setting. Field trips are included. Students will make a thin-section and
prepare a detailed report on it.
Goals and Objectives of Course
1. Students will demonstrate their understand the principles and theory of the origin
of igneous and metamorphic rocks.
2. Students will be able to describe the mineralogy, textures, and compositions of
igneous and metamorphic rocks in hand specimen and thin section.
3. Students will be able to classify igneous and metamorphic rocks based on mineralogy,
texture, and composition.
4. Students will demonstrate the use of a petrographic microscope in the study of
rocks as thin sections.
5. Students will further their knowledge of petrology by use of the scientific literature.
6. Students will apply the theoretical knowledge gained in lecture to the practical
problems posed in lab.
7. Students will demonstrate knowledge and skills that can be used for further study
in advanced courses, graduate school, and in industry.
Assessment Measures
Assessment is based on a number of lecture exams, problem sets, and laboratory exercises
and exams on each rock group, and a final thin-section report. Lecture exams will
assess the student's knowledge of the theory and origin of rocks. Laboratory exercises
and practical exams will assess the student's ability to identify and describe rocks,
and apply basic quantitative methods. Reports on thin-section projects and/or field
trips will also be used.
Other Course Information
GEOL 312 is a required course for a geology major.
Review and Approval
March, 2010