Programme/Approved Electives for 2020/21
None
Available as a Free Standing Elective
No
Not available to those students who have taken module ESC-30008 (Structure and Geodynamics)
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 structure 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 via the study of field outcrops.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
To teach students the concepts, processes and physical structures associated with continental tectonics.
Talis Aspire Reading ListAny reading lists will be provided by the start of the course.http://lists.lib.keele.ac.uk/modules/esc-40024/lists
Intended Learning Outcomes
describe in detail the large scale tectonic evolution of geological features occurring in extensional, compressional, inversion and wrench continental tectonic regimes, much of which is at, or informed by, the forefront of the academic discipline: 1,2,3describe in detail the structural geology of sedimentary basins in a variety of tectonic settings using geological maps and seismic reflection profiles, as well as showing a critical awareness of current problems and/or new insights within the subject area: 1,3describe in detail and critically assess, as informed by research at the forefront of the discipline, the processes involved in the mechanical, thermal, rheological and isostatic behaviour of the lithosphere during continental tectonics: 2,3apply seismic reflection interpretation, structural interpretation of geological maps and cross-sections, collection and analysis of structural data in the field, aerial photograph mapping and the numerical/computer modelling of geological processes, and be able to demonstrate self-direction and originality in tackling and solving problems by using a combination of these techniques: 1,2
- 16 hours lectures- 30 hours practical classes- 16 hours fieldwork- 88 hours private study/completion of assignments
Description of Module Assessment
1: Practical Assessment weighted 25%Structural practical exercisesComputer and lab-based seismic interpretation exercises and exercises based on field area.
2: Practical Assessment weighted 25%Practical class-based exercises on Geodynamics part of the moduleCompletion of 4 worksheets involving the development of numerical model of geodynamic processes in a spreadsheet environment.
3: Open Book Examination weighted 50%Open book examStudents have a three-week period in which to complete an open book examination based on questions that integrate all parts of module. Students are required to answer three questions from a choice of six. The questions are unseen until the time of their release. Students can make use of any resources available to them (e.g., class notes, journal literature text books, etc). The word count is 2400 words.