Metamorphic Petrology

• Credit value: 15 credits at Level 5
• Convenor: Steve Hirons
• Assessment: one three-hour combined theory and practical paper (100%)

In this module we introduce the main concepts of metamorphic petrology and relate the occurrence of metamorphic rocks to plate tectonics and orogenic activity. You will study metamorphic rocks using a petrological and binocular microscope so that you can identify and interpret their mineralogy and textures.

The module includes one weekend field class in Cornwall (optional).

Indicative syllabus

• The recognition, geological occurrence and petrogenesis of common metamorphic rocks
• Classification of metamorphic rocks
• Recognition of rock-structure and textures
• Relationship between metamorphism and plate tectonics
• The nature of metamorphic reactions
• Metamorphic grade
• Metamorphic facies
• High- and low-pressure metamorphism
• The integration of descriptive and interpretative petrology is the main aim of practical work

By the end of this module, you will be able to:

• understand the chemistry and mineralogy of metamorphic rock
• relate metamorphic rocks to plate tectonics
• understand basic petrogenetic processes
• interpret information derived from thin-section and hand-specimen analysis
• demonstrate reasoning based on evidence from mineralogy and chemistry of rocks
• demonstrate basic scientific literacy
• place various types of rock in a plate tectonic context
• interpret numerical and chemical data
• write scientific descriptions of rock samples.