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651-4045-00L 2 Credits MSC D-ERDW
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Microscopy of Metamorphic Rocks

Lecturers & Examiners: Dr. Andrea Galli
VVZ CR n/a

Last Updated: 2026-02-05 15:36:14

Abstract

Repetition of methods using optic properties of crystals and the polarising microscope.Identification of minerals and metamorphic parageneses.Description and interpretation of microstructures.Age relationship of crystallisation and deformation.Estimation of metamorphic grade.

Objective

- Advanced knowledge in optical mineralogy - Application of methods to determine minerals in thin sections - Identification and characterisation of metamorphic minerals - Description of rocks. Derive correct petrographic rock name, based on modal abundance and microstructure/texture - Interpretation of rock fabric/microstructure, parageneses and mineral reactions

Content

- Repetition of principal optical properties and of microscopic methods to identify minerals. Emphasis on interpretation of interference figures. - Study typical metamorphic rocks in thin sections - Description and interpretation of parageneses and texture/microstructures. Study the age relationship of crystallisation and deformation. - Estimation of metamorphic grade - Quantification: To determine volume percentage of rock components - Scientific documentation: Descriptions, drawings, photomicrography using different kinds of illumination and using plane- or circular-polarised light.

Resources

Lecture Notes

handouts with additional information on theory and for exercises, in English.To brush up knowledge in optical mineralogy read the relevant chapters in the book of W.D. Nesse (2004).

Literature

- Nesse, W.D.: Introduction to optical mineralogy. 3. Ed. (2004). Figures from this book will be used in lectures. Besides the theory, this book describes all optical properties of important minerals. Petrographers working on varying types of silicate rocks should have a look at this book. -Yardley, B.W.D., Mackenzie, W.S. und Guilford, C. (1990): Atlas of metamorphic rocks and their textures. Longman Scientific. With nice pictures. Also available in the D-ERDW library, NO building, on D-floor. - Vernon, R.H. (2004): A practical guide to rock microstructures. Cambridge Univ. Press. 594 pages. Includes color photos and a glossary.

Learning Materials (Links)

General Information

Language
English
Levels
MSC
Frequency
Yearly recurring

Examination

Type
graded semester performance
Prerequisite: this course can only be taken if the student has basic knowledge in Microscopy of Rocks in thin sections.

Registration & Places

Max Places
24

Course Components

Type Title Time & Place Hours
lecture with exercise Microscopy of Metamorphic Rocks
Safety Concept Microscopy Exercises: a) the safety concepts for teaching and the protection concept for practical laboratory courses of ETH Zurich must be followed, b) Students and lecturers must wear face masks c) In order to protect the eyepieces from contamination by the eyes, protective goggles are mandatory d) Disinfectant is available for regular hand disinfection e) Latex gloves are provided if required f) The tables are to be cleaned regularly with surface disinfection g) The microscopes must be disinfected by the student after the lesson
  • Tue 16:15-18:00 (NO D 1)
  • Tue 16:15-18:00 (NO D 69)
  • Wed 08:15-10:00 (NO D 1)
  • Wed 08:15-10:00 (NO D 69)
28 h semesterly

Offered In