Module GEOL3051: VOLCANOLOGY AND MAGMATISM

Department: Earth Sciences

GEOL3051: VOLCANOLOGY AND MAGMATISM

Prerequisites

• GEOL2231 Igneous and Metamorphic Geochemistry and Petrology

Corequisites

• None.

Excluded Combination of Modules

• None.

Aims

• To develop a deep and synoptic understanding of the volcanic system from source to impact, with an appreciation of the essential links between magmagenesis, geochemistry, petrography, physical volcanology, field volcanology, and hazard and risk.
• To develop the capacity to interrogate field and laboratory data, and to integrate this with understanding gained through classroom learning and from the literature.

Content

• Magmagenesis and crustal magmatic storage processes.
• Geochemistry of magmatic volatiles.
• Physical properties of magma and microphysical controls on magma behaviour.
• Magma flow and conduit processes.
• The physics of explosive and effusive eruptions.
• Pyroclastic dispersal and deposits.
• Lava flows and domes.
• Structure of volcanoes and the construction of a volcanic edifice.
• Volcanic hazards, risks and their assessment.
• Impacts of volcanic eruptions.

Learning Outcomes

• Understand and interpret the origin and evolution of magma as it passes through the volcanic system, and how its physical and chemical properties influence eruption.
• Understand how eruptions construct volcanic edifices, and how volcanic emissions impact on human populations.

• Acquire and develop the intellectual and practical skills to observe, record accurately and account for geological features in the laboratory and in the field.
• Acquire and develop the intellectual and practical skills to synthesize information/data from a variety of sources.
• Acquire the intellectual and practical skills to analyse, evaluate and interpret geological data.

• To understand and use formal scientific reasoning.
• Synthesize and respond to a variety of information sources.
• Develop skills necessary for self-managed learning (including independent working, time management).
• Develop understanding through observation, analysis and interpretation in the field.

Modes of Teaching, Learning and Assessment and how these contribute to the learning outcomes of the module

• Teaching is delivered via a mixture of lectures and extended guided practical classes, supported by handouts, directed reading, feedback and a one-week residential field trip.
• The principles of the subject will be re-enforced with laboratory, field exercises and academic literature.
• Summative assessment is 100% continual and comprises assessed practical work, field work and report writing, through which students can demonstrate their problem solving skills, practical skills and theoretical comprehension.
• Formative assessment is provided via feedback to practical assignments.

Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

Summative Assessment

Formative Assessment:

Laboratory-based practical exercises and reports.

■ Attendance at all activities marked with this symbol will be monitored. Students who fail to attend these activities, or to complete the summative or formative assessment specified above, will be subject to the procedures defined in the University's General Regulation V, and may be required to leave the University