School of Physical and Geographical Sciences  
 
 
ESC-30024 Magmatic and Volcanic Processes (Project)  
Co-ordinator: Dr Ralf Gertisser    Room: WSF32, Tel:33181  
Teaching Team:  
Level: 3 Credits: 15 Study Hours: 150  
School Office:
 
 
 
Programme/Approved Electives for
None
Available as a Free Standing Elective
No
Prerequisites
There are no prerequisites for this module.
Barred Combinations
ESC-30023 Magmatic and Volcanic Processes (Fieldwork).
Description

This module examines in detail magmatic and volcanic processes operating during magma ascent and storage in crustal reservoirs, volcanic eruption and injection of volcanic ash and gases into the atmosphere. The module involves a case study report on magmatic and volcanic processes on Montserrat or another volcanic area. It also covers volcanic features on other planetary bodies.
Aims
This module aims to teach magmatic and volcanic processes on the Earth and other planetary bodies and to investigate modern petrological, geochemical and volcanological methods used to study such processes.
Intended Learning Outcomes
At the end of the module students should have:

  • A systematic understanding of key magmatic and volcanic processes operating on the journey of magma from its source in the Earth's mantle to the atmosphere and of aspects of planetary volcanism.
  • A conceptional understanding of the application of modern methods in igneous petrology and volcanolgy, and the ability to critically evaluate the strengths and limitations of these methods, based on knowledge, some at or informed by the forefront of the discipline.
  • The capability to deploy subject-specific skills and established techniques to interpret petrological, geochemical and volcanological data, and apply and critically evaluate these to the formulation and solution of a problem.
  • Experience in all aspects of data analysis, report writing, problem-solving and decision-making in a complex context that allow the student to undertake further professional training.
Study hours
  • 18 hours lectures
  • 18 hours practical classes and related assignments
  • 64 hours for completion of project including report
  • 50 hours for revision and private study.
Description of Module Assessment
1: Practical Assessment weighted 20%
Practical based exercises
2: Practical Assessment weighted 40%
Individual project work on magmatic and volcanic processes, involving submission of a supporting report (2500 words)
3: 2 Hour Unseen Exam weighted 40%
2 hour unseen examination - short and and long answer questions
Version: (1.03) Created: 12/Oct/2009

This document is the definitive current source of information about this module and supersedes any other information.