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School of Physical and Geographical Sciences  
 
 
ESC-30008 Structure and Geodynamics  
Co-ordinator: Dr Stuart Egan    Room: WSF29, Tel:33174  
Teaching Team:  
Lecture Time: See Timetable...  
Level: 3 Credits: 15 Study Hours: 150  
School Office:
 
 
 
Programme/Approved Electives for
Geology Major (Level 3)
Geology Major (Level 3)
Geoscience Single Honours (Level 3)
Available as a Free Standing Elective
No
Prerequisites
Successful completion of level 2 of programmes defined in Section A

Barred Combinations
Not applicable

Description

This module uses lecture and practical classes to study the structural and geodynamic effects associated with continental tectonics. Extensional, compressional, inversion, wrench/strike-slip regimes are studied at both regional and local scales. The first part of the course explains the structural styles exhibited in each of these regimes. In addition, the analysis of a variety of geological and geophysical data during practical classes provides an understanding of the formation and evolution of geological features such as extensional sedimentary basins and mountain belt-foreland basin couplets. Extensional and inversion tectonics are also illustrated during a field weekend in SW England.

The geodynamics component of the course concentrates upon explaining the fundamental processes that occur within the lithosphere during continental tectonics. Emphasis is placed upon mechanical, thermal, rheological and isostatic controls upon basin formation. The practical element of this part of the course provides an introduction to the numerical and computer modelling of geological processes.
Aims
The primary aim of the module is to teach students the concepts, processes and physical structures associated with continental tectonics
Intended Learning Outcomes
describe and interpret the large scale tectonic evolution of geological features occurring in extensional, compressional, inversion and wrench continental tectonic regimes will be achieved by assessments: 1, 2, 3
interpret and analyse geological maps and seismic reflection profiles to become familiar with the structural geology of sedimentary basins in a variety of tectonic settings. will be achieved by assessments: 1
understand the mechanical, thermal, rheological and isostatic behaviour of the continental lithosphere during continental tectonics. will be achieved by assessments: 2, 3
use numerical/computer modelling techniques as a tool for providing insights into sedimentary basin formation, and have a critical awareness of their strengths and weaknesses will be achieved by assessments: 2
Study hours
- 20 hours lectures
- 30 hours practical classes
- 20 hours fieldwork
- 80 hours private study/completion of assignments
Description of Module Assessment
01: Practical Assessment weighted 25%
STRUCTURAL PRACTICAL EXERCISES
Combination of field-based exercises, and computer and lab-based seismic interpretation exercises
02: Practical Assessment weighted 25%
Practical assignments on geodynamics
Portfolio of worksheets on the numerical/computer modelling of geological and geodynamic processes
03: Unseen Exam weighted 50%
Two-hour unseen examination
Exam based on 3 sections: a) questions on structural component of module, b) questions on geodynamics component of module, c) questions that integrate all parts of module
Version: (1.06B) Updated: 03/Mar/2013

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