ESC-40024 - MGeoscience: Structure and Geodynamics
Coordinator: Stuart Egan Room: WSF29 Tel: +44 1782 7 33174
Lecture Time: See Timetable...
Level: Level 7
Credits: 15
Study Hours: 150
School Office: 01782 733615

Programme/Approved Electives for 2022/23

None

Available as a Free Standing Elective

No

Co-requisites

None

Prerequisites

none

Barred Combinations

Not available to those students who have taken module ESC-30008 (Structure and Geodynamics)

Description for 2022/23

This module uses a combination of synchronous and asynchronous teaching sessions to study the structural and geodynamic effects associated with continental tectonics. Extensional, compressional, inversion, wrench/strike-slip regimes are studied at both regional and local scales. The structure part of the module explains the structural styles exhibited in each of these regimes. In addition, the analysis of a variety of geological and geophysical data during practical classes provides an understanding of the formation and evolution of geological features such as extensional sedimentary basins and mountain belt-foreland basin couplets. Extensional and inversion tectonics are also illustrated via the study of field outcrops.
The geodynamics component of the module concentrates upon explaining the fundamental processes that occur within the lithosphere during continental tectonics. Emphasis is placed upon mechanical, thermal, rheological and isostatic controls upon basin formation. The practical element of this part of the module provides an introduction to the numerical and computer modelling of geological processes.

Aims
To teach students the concepts, processes and physical structures associated with continental tectonics.

Talis Aspire Reading List
Any reading lists will be provided by the start of the course.
http://lists.lib.keele.ac.uk/modules/esc-40024/lists

Intended Learning Outcomes

describe in detail the large scale tectonic evolution of geological features occurring in extensional, compressional, inversion and wrench continental tectonic regimes, much of which is at, or informed by, the forefront of the academic discipline: 1,3
describe in detail the structural geology of sedimentary basins in a variety of tectonic settings using geological maps and seismic reflection profiles, as well as showing a critical awareness of current problems and/or new insights within the subject area: 1,3
describe in detail and critically assess, as informed by research at the forefront of the discipline, the processes involved in the mechanical, thermal, rheological and isostatic behaviour of the lithosphere during continental tectonics: 2,3,4
apply seismic reflection interpretation, structural interpretation of geological maps and cross-sections, collection and analysis of structural data in the field, aerial photograph mapping and the numerical/computer modelling of geological processes, and be able to demonstrate self-direction and originality in tackling and solving problems by using a combination of these techniques: 1,2,4

Study hours

- 40 hours synchronous teaching (e.g. practical classes)
- 16 hours fieldwork
- 10 hours asynchronous teaching (e.g. Sway-based presentations)
- 84 hours private study/completion of assignments

School Rules

None

Description of Module Assessment

1: Portfolio weighted 33%
Structural practical exercises
Interpretation and analysis of subsurface geological data in practical classes, and aerial photograph mapping and structural interpretation based on module field course.

2: Portfolio weighted 17%
Practical assignments on geodynamics: lithosphere extension and basin formation
Practical exercises (worksheet-based) on modelling lithosphere extension and basin formation using spreadsheet software

3: Class Test weighted 34%
Class Test
End of semester short answer test administered via the KLE and taking approximately 2-hours to complete. The questions will place emphasis on integrating both structural and geodynamic components of the module.

4: Portfolio weighted 16%
Practical assignments on geodynamics: modelling of extensional fault movement and flexural isostasy
Practical exercises (worksheet based) on modelling the structural and isostatic effects of extensional fault movement and flexural isostasy