Structural Geology (U01723)

? Credit Points : 10 ? SCQF Level : 9 ? Acronym : GEO-3-STRUA

Structural Geology is concerned with characterising and understanding deformation of the lithosphere. For the most part we will be focusing on crustal deformation as observed through field mapping and, to a lesser extent, seismic reflection imaging. This course aims to cover three key components:

* how to make appropriate structural observations and measurements in the field;
* how that information is represented on maps and utilised to construct cross-sections;
* how to interpret structural data in terms of the tectonic setting in which the deformation occurred.

The interpretation aspect depends crucially on recognising deformation mechanisms that occur on different scales, and understanding how these processes are controlled (primarily) by pressure-temperature conditions within the lithosphere, and thus the rheology of the rocks at the time they were deformed. We will also be concerned with sub-surface structural extrapolation, quantifying the amount of deformation that has occurred, and understanding the growth of geological structures. Where possible this course has been arranged to investigate structural aspects of material presented in Dynamic Stratigraphy of the British Isles, and is timetabled so that the topics coincide wherever possible.

Entry Requirements

? Pre-requisites : Sedimentology A

? Costs : None.

Subject Areas

Home subject area

Earth Science, (School of GeoSciences, Schedule N)

Delivery Information

? Normal year taken : 3rd year

? Delivery Period : Semester 1 (Blocks 1-2)

? Contact Teaching Time : 3 hour(s) per week for

First Class Information

Date	Start	End	Room	Area	Additional Information
25/09/2006	09:00	09:50	Lecture Theatre 201, Geology/Geophysics	KB

All of the following classes

Type	Day	Start	End	Area
Lecture	Monday	09:00	09:50	KB
Laboratory	Monday	10:00	12:00	KB

Summary of Intended Learning Outcomes

Learning outcomes are:
- how to make appropriate structural observations and measurements in the field
- how that information is represented on maps and utilised to construct cross-sections
- how to interpret structural data in terms of the tectonic setting in which the deformation occurred.

This course will teach students how to recognise deformation mechanisms that occur on different scales, and an understanding of how these processes are controlled (primarily) by pressure-temperature conditions within the lithosphere and thus the rheology of the rocks at the time they were deformed. The course will also cover sub-surface structural extrapolation, quantifying amounts of deformation, and understanding the growth of geological structures.