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Microscopy of Rocks Fundamentals
Grundlagen der Gesteinsmikroskopie
Last Updated: 2026-06-03 00:14:22
Abstract
Use of the polarizing microscope and understanding of diagnostic optical properties as required to identify minerals and hence give a rock its proper name. Application of the main optical properties to recognize and name the common rock-forming minerals and structures in magmatic, metamorphic and sedimentary rocks.
Objective
Ready to use the polarisation microscope for a rock series as may e.g. be required in the BSc thesis. Ability to identify unknown minerals on the basis of their optical properies. Understand the relation of a macroscopic hand speciment and its thin section in the microscope.
Resources
Lecture Notes
Skript of ~50 pages as handout in 1st lecture,handouts with tasks during the practical each lecture,homework assignments will be distributed in most lectures
General Information
- Language
- German
- Levels
- BSC
- Frequency
- Yearly recurring
Examination
- Type
- end-of-semester examination
- Mode
- written 20 minutes, oral 60 minutes
- Aids
- None
Registration & Places
- Max Places
- 48
Course Components
| Type | Title | Time & Place | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| practical/laboratory course | Grundlagen der Gesteinsmikroskopie |
|
2 h weekly |