spring 2020 GEO-3131 Deformation processes - 5 ECTS

Application deadline

Applicants from Nordic countries:  1 December for the spring semester.

Exchange students and Fulbright students: 1 October for the spring semester.


Type of course

This course is available as a single course.

Admission requirements

Bachelor's degree in geology, or a similar degree following a programme of study of at least three years duration, or similar education approved in accordance with the Norwegian Universities Act section 3-4. In addition, specialization in geology worth the equivalent of at least 80 ECTS credits is required. Normally, an average mark of C or better is required at the bachelor's degree level or other programme for basis of admission.

Application code: 9371.


Obligatory prerequisites

GEO-3104 Advanced Structural Geology

Course content

The course gives a thorough treatment of deformation processes and mechanisms in solids. The mechanisms include fracture theory as well as defect theory, and theory of crystal plastic and diffusion creep deformation. The mechanical consequences in terms of rheological equations will be covered in detail and applied to examples. The practical part consists largely of microscopic exercises to recognize and quantify deformation structures and their processes and conditions of formation.

Objectives of the course

Knowledge

The student has

  • knowledge of the principles of deformation processes in solids in general and especially rocks.
  • knowledge of rheology of rocks and their constitutive equations.
  • understanding of deformation structures in thin sections.
  • understanding of application of parameters such as grain size, stress, and strain.

Skills

The student can

  • interpret microstructures in the microscope.
  • analyze the microstructures in terms of processes.
  • infer the rheology from the observations and interpreted processes.
  • use observations to infer mechanical conditions of the formation of structures.

General competences

The student can

  • carry out the most important elements of geological research projects related to deformation processes: understanding literature, make observations, analyze data, and communicate results to fellow students/scientists.
  • use data and geological knowledge to understand processes.
  • solve deformation problems analytically and express results in written English.
  • work independent and in a team.


Language of instruction and examination

English.

Teaching methods

20 hours of lectures, 20 hours of practical exercises.

Assessment

Take-home written exam that counts 100 % of the final grade.

Grading scale: Letter grades A-F, where F is fail. A re-examination for students that did not pass the previous ordinary exam will be arranged for this course.

Compulsory learning activities

Admittance to the exam requires attendance of at least 80% of the lectures and exerci


  • About the course
  • Campus: Tromsø |
  • ECTS: 5
  • Course code: GEO-3131