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651-3521-00L 3 Credits BSC , MSC D-MAVT , D-PHYS , D-ERDW , D-ITET

Tectonics

Lecturers & Examiners: Prof. Dr. Paul Tackley, Prof. Dr. Whitney Behr, Prof. Dr. Seulgi Moon

VVZ CR n/a

Last Updated: 2026-06-03 00:07:42

Abstract

Structure, evolution, and dynamics of tectonic systems across divergent, convergent, strike-slip, and intraplate settings. Emphasizes integration of geological and geophysical observations to understand lithosphere-scale deformation, plate-boundary architecture, and links among tectonics, topography, and surface processes, with comparative examples from other planetary bodies.

Objective

By the end of the course, students should be able to: -- describe the main tectonic settings on Earth and the processes that govern their evolution -- interpret lithosphere-scale deformation using geological, geophysical, geomorphic, and geodetic observations -- distinguish the structural and topographic expression of divergent, convergent, strike-slip, and intraplate systems -- relate tectonic architecture to crustal and lithospheric strength, rheology, and boundary conditions -- analyze simple tectonic problems using maps, cross-sections, and basic quantitative tools -- evaluate links among tectonics, topography, sedimentation, and surface processes -- compare selected tectonic styles on Earth with those of other rocky planetary bodies

Content

Plate tectonic frame work: earth cooling and mantle-plate interaction, three kinds of plate boundaries and their roles and characteristics, cycle of oceanic lithosphere, longlifety and growth of continents, supercontinents. Rheology of layered lithosphere and upper mantle. Obduction systems Collisions systems Extensional systems Basin evolution Passive and active continental margin evolution

Resources

Literature

Turcotte, D. L. & Schubert, G. 2002. Geodynamics. Cambridge University Press, Cambridge. Becker, T. and Faccenna, C., 2025. Tectonic Geodynamics. Princeton University Press. Fossen and Teyssier, 2024. Plate Tectonics. Cambridge University Press. Jean-Pierre Burg's lecture scripts: https://www.jpburg.ethz.ch/Logbooks.htm

General Information

Language: English
Levels: BSC , MSC
Frequency: Yearly recurring

Examination

Type: graded semester performance

Course Components

Type	Title	Time & Place	Hours
lecture	Tectonics	No time listed	2 h weekly

Offered In

Earth and Climate Sciences Bachelor
- Majors
  - Major: Geology and Geophysics (Advisors of the major in Geology and Geophysics are Dr. Vincenzo Picotti (Geology) and Dr. Andrea Zunino (Geophysics).)
    - Advanced
Earth Sciences Master
- Major in Geology
  - Restricted Choice Modules Geology (A minimum of two restricted choice modules must be completed for the major Geology.)
    - Structural Geology
      - Structural Geology: Courses of Choice
  - Open Choice Modules Geology
    - Lithosphere Structure and Tectonics
Space Systems Master
- Deep Track Courses (At least 20 credits must be completed within the deep track courses. Surplus credit points can be counted towards the electives.)
  - Planetary Science
    - Deep Track Planetary Science (These courses can be credited either as a specialization subject or as an elective subject.)