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Earth as a Planet

Overview

Module description

In this module we introduce the subject of geology, giving an overview of the range of topics within the discipline. We discuss fundamental concepts of how the Earth works as a solid planet, but also referring to ocean and atmospheric processes where necessary, and concepts in biology, chemistry, physics, mathematics, computer science, natural hazards and physical geography that are used by geologists and planetary scientists. 

You will gain practical skills such as mineral, rock and fossil identification and classification, use of a petrological microscope, interpretation of geological maps, successions, cross-sections and air/satellite photos. These skills allow you to understand how geological processes are proposed as hypotheses, tested via observations and modelling, and used to inform society with regard to their significance to humans and the environment.

We will consider how concepts in this module relate to climate change and the paradigm of plate tectonics, and also how these processes differ on other planets and moons in our solar system.

Indicative syllabus

  • Introduction to the Earth and sub-disciplines within geology
  • Earth structure
  • Geological time
  • Minerals and the main rock types
  • Mineral optics and identification of rocks in hand-specimen and under the microscope
  • Igneous rocks and igneous processes
  • Sedimentary rocks and sedimentary processes
  • Metamorphic rocks and metamorphic processes
  • Structural geology
  • Plate tectonics

Learning objectives

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

  • understand how the Earth formed
  • demonstrate familiarity with concepts in biology, chemistry, physics, mathematics, computer science, natural hazards and physical geography that are used by geologists and planetary scientists
  • recognise and classify rock, mineral and fossil assemblages that characterise the Earth and in part other planets and moons in our solar system
  • demonstrate practical skills used by geologists and planetary scientists
  • show how geological understanding provides insights into processes on the Earth that contribute to the evolution of planets, climate change, natural hazards and formation of raw materials.