EA3100 - Earth Dynamics

Credit points:	03
Year:	2011
Student Contribution Band:	Band 4
Administered by:	Sch of Earth & Environmental Sciences

A holistic approach to how Earth works, involving integration of igneous and metamorphic petrology, and basin analysis with tectonic setting. Geochemical and petrological features of igneous rocks, and their interrelationship with tectonics. Modern-day tectonic processes, and causes and consequences of supercontinent assembly and break-up. Comparison with modern and ancient Earth.

Learning Outcomes

• The course focuses on the response of magmatic, metamorphic and sedimentological phenomena to plate tectonic processes. The first part of the course ensures a sound petrological knowledge before application to the geodynamics of modern Earth. An appreciation of how global tectonics applies to the supercontinent cycle. Intergrated P-T-t metamorphic-structural approaches to orogenesis. Application to ancient orogens, back to the early Earth, to assess the role of plate tectonics through time.

Graduate Qualities

• The ability to think critically, to analyse and evaluate claims, evidence and arguments;
• The ability to adapt knowledge to new situations;
• The ability to communicate effectively with a range of audiences;
• The ability to speak and write logically, clearly and creatively;
• The ability to calculate, produce, interpret and communicate numerical information;
• The ability to select and use appropriate IT tools;
• The ability to access and employ online technologies effectively;
• A coherent and disciplined body of skills, knowledge, values and professional ethics in at least one discipline area;
• The ability to learn independently and in a self-directed manner;
• A commitment to lifelong learning and intellectual development.

Prerequisites:	EA2220
Inadmissible Subject Combinations:	EA5041

Availabilities
Townsville, Internal, Study Period 1
Census Date 24-Mar-2011
Coordinator:	Assoc. Professor Tom Blenkinsop
Lecturers:	Assoc. Professor Tom Blenkinsop, Dr Carl Spandler.
Contact hours:	25 hours lectures 24 hours practicals 16 hours fieldwork
Assessment:	end of semester exam (60%); assignments (40%).

Note: Minor variations might occur due to the continuous Subject quality improvement process, and in case of minor variation(s) in assessment details, the Subject Outline represents the latest official information.