EA2004:03
Geology of the Coastal Zone
Cairns
Prerequisites: EA1001
24 lectures, 18 hours practicals, 24 hours field excursion. First semester.
Staff: Mr P Whitehead.
Geology of the coastal zone as demonstrated by the coastal region of Far North Queensland. The development of the physical features of the coastal region, such as genesis and evolution of the basement geology. Characterisation and description of igneous and metamorphic rocks in the context of genetic processes and coastal setting. Surficial and quaternary geology of the coastal zone: volcanic activities, weathering processes and regolith mineralogy, geochemistry and radiometrics. Applied sedimentology of the coastal zone: coastal stratigraphy, sediment dynamics of estuaries, locations of economically valuable minerals and contamination of coastal sediments and harbour muds by anthropogenic activities. Hydrology and hydrochemistry of the coastal zone: movement of pollution through aqueous environments and resource extraction.
Learning Objectives:
- to understand the geological evolution of the coastal zone in Far North Queensland;
- to develop skills and knowledge to identify rock-forming minerals and igneous and metamorphic rocks in hand specimen;
- to understand the geological processes operating in coastal environments;
- to develop skills and knowledge in investigating coastal resources and environmental impacts.
Assessment by a two-hour written examination (50%); fieldwork, assignments, tests, seminars and practical classes (50%).