In this Masters-level course, we address the formation and evolution of the rocky planets with a particular focus on the chemical and isotopic make-up of the Earth and its mantle. This is achieved through analysis of its partial melting products in different tectonic settings and through time.

This course introduces the most common experimental methods employed in petrology. Such methods can be used to determine thermodynamic data, physical properties and phase equilibria of minerals, magmas and fluids. The course consists of about 1/3 theory combined with 2/3 hands-on lab-work to demonstrate how experiments are performed in practice.

Self-study course, the contents of which will be defined by consultation with the study advisor.

This course develops the thermodynamic concepts necessary to predict phase equilibria and to compute chemical and physical properties from thermodynamic data in an Earth and planetary science context.