625-222 Minerals and Magmas

Special Requirements: Geological hammer, hand lens and magnet. Students should consult the Earth Sciences web site for dates, charges for excursions, accommodation and food and other information including safety requirements.

Earth sciences 625-102. VCE Chemistry is desirable.

Topics include an introduction to the optical properties of minerals in thin section, identification of common rock-forming minerals in thin section and hand specimen, and chemical variations in minerals; melting, transport and crystallisation processes in the formation of igneous rocks; the classification and textures of igneous rocks; and igneous rocks in thin section, hand specimen and in the field.

On completion of this subject, students should be able to describe and identify the common rock-forming minerals in thin section and hand specimen; be able to explain certain processes involved in the formation of igneous rocks and related ore deposits; and be able to recognise and describe the most important rock types in the laboratory and in the field.

This subject should help develop your ability to synthesise data and interpret your observations, allowing you to tackle the description and identification of unfamiliar samples. Opportunities will be provided for you to work with other students during laboratory and in a fieldwork environment.

Four short quiz exercises (5% each) throughout the semester (including one held on the Western Victorian Volcanoes field excursion); participation in both field excursions (5%); a 2-hour practical examination during the semester (20%); a 2-hour written examination in the examination period (55%).