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651-3620-00L 3 Credits MSC D-ERDW

Geology of the Alps

Does not take place this semester. In spring semester the course will be replaced with "Geodynamics of the Alpine-Mediterranean Mountains and Basins"
VVZ CR n/a

Last Updated: 2026-02-05 15:40:44

Abstract

Provides a practical, field-based introduction to the Geology of the Alps.

Objective

To understand the development of the Alpine orogen from initial rifting and sedimentation, through the period of collision, mountainbuilding, metamorphism and magmatism, to the current waning stages of exhumation and erosion.

Content

The following topics are covered in a chronological order, and with reference to plate tectonic processes: (1) Prealpine crust; (2) Paleozoic and Triassic; (3) Jurassic (rifting and ocean building); (4) Jurassic to Early Cretaceous (ocean); (5) Late Cretaceous (subduction and flysch); (6) Tertiary, including the Molasse and Foreland Basin; (7) Geometry and development of the Western Alps; (8) Geometry and development of the Central Alps; (9) Geometry and development of the Eastern Alps; (10) Tertiary metamorphism; (11) Tertiary magmatism; (12) Deep structure of the Alps; (13) Neogene tectonics and exhumation.

Resources

Lecture Notes

Handouts are provided during lectures.

Literature

Suggested additional literature: Pfiffner, O.A. 2014. Geology of the Alps (Wiley) Trümpy, R. 1980. Geology of Switzerland: A Guide Book. Part A An Outline of the Geology of Switzerland. Wepf & Co., Basel, 104 p. Trümpy, R. 1980. Geology of Switzerland: A Guide Book. Part B Geological Excursions. Wepf & Co., Basel, 334 p.

Learning Materials (Links)

General Information

Language
English
Levels
MSC
Frequency
Yearly recurring

Examination

Type
graded semester performance
Teil der Semesterleistung ist ein mehrtägiger Feldkurs.Die Prüfungsteile von N. Mancktelow und E. Reusser dürfen auf Deutsch beantwortet werden.

Registration & Places

Priority: Registration for the course unit is only possible for the primary target group

Course Components

Type Title Time & Place Hours
lecture Geology of the Alps
Does not take place this semester. In addition to the lectures there is a 4-day obligatory field course.
No time listed 28 h semesterly
practical/laboratory course Field Course for Geology of the Alps
Does not take place this semester.
No time listed 28 h semesterly

Offered In

  • Earth Sciences Master
    • Electives (Courses can be chosen from the complete offerings of the ETH Zurich and University of Zurich (according to prior agreement with the MSc Committee).)