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Microstructures and Rock Rheology
Last Updated: 2026-06-04 00:14:09
Objective
This course focuses on how deformation is accommodated in the lithosphere at the microscale, along the faults and shear zones that define Earth’s tectonic plate boundaries. Students will receive a basic overview (or review) of optical microscopy, and will learn how to distinguish different deformation mechanisms in rocks deformed at a range of pressure-temperature conditions through study of hand samples, thin sections, and field outcrops. Additional discussion topics will include processes that lead to strain localization, relationships between deformation and metamorphism, and rock rheology.
Content
Students will be evaluated based on a) turning in laboratory assignments focused on microstructural analysis, and b) an open format term project due at the end of the semester. The grade percentage breakdown will be as follows: In-class exercises & attendance: 15% Lab Assignments: 55% Term Project Paper: 30% Lab Assignment Guidelines: A total of 4 labs will be assigned throughout the semester. Each lab will cover multiple aspects of the lecture material and will require both in-class and out-of-class time to complete. All of the labs will involve making sketches and brief written interpretations of rock microstructure using a petrographic microscope. Completed labs should be neat, concise, and well organized. Term Project Guidelines: Your term project should be ~five pages of single-spaced text, plus any figures that help illustrate your points, formatted like an academic paper. I encourage you to write about a microstructural aspect of your own research, and it's great if you can include some original findings. If that's not possible, I can give you a list of general literature review topics to choose from.
General Information
- Language
- English
- Levels
- MSC
- Frequency
- Every two years
Examination
- Type
- graded semester performance
Course Components
| Type | Title | Time & Place | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| lecture with exercise |
Microstructures and Rock Rheology
Lecture in NO D1 and NO E51.1 for all students.
Lab course in NO D69 in two groups.
|
|
2 h weekly |
Offered In
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Compulsory Module in Analytical Methods in Earth Sciences (Students need to register for 6 credits in part A, and 6 credits in part B.)
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Restricted Choice Modules Geology (A minimum of two restricted choice modules must be completed for the major Geology.)
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