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James Cook University Subject Handbook - 2023

For subject information from 2025 and onwards, please visit the new JCU Course and Subject Handbook website.

EA2220 - Minerals and Magmas

Credit points:03
Year:2023
Student Contribution Band:Band 2
Prerequisites:EA1110 plus at least 9 credit points of ANY undergraduate subject
Administered by:College of Science and Engineering

Subject Description

    Introduction to the principles of solid state physics, crystallography, mineralogy and petrology. The subject focuses on 1. The description of crystal systems, mineral classification and mineral chemistry. 2. The characterisation and description of igneous rocks in terms of chemistry, mineralogy, texture and tectonic settings. Practical classes are focused on mineral identification using the polarising microscope and igneous rock classification

Learning Outcomes

  • Discuss the importance of mineralogical sciences and its applications to various fields of Earth Sciences
  • Demonstrate efficient communication with other geoscientists dealing with minerals and igneous rocks
  • Operate a polarizing microscope to identify common rock-forming minerals, common types of igneous rocks and associated textures
  • Apply observations of hand samples and thin sections to determine classifications of igneous rock samples
  • Identify, describe and explain basic magmatic processes in various tectonic environments

Subject Assessment

  • Written > Examination (centrally administered) - (50%) - Individual
  • Written > Test/Quiz 1 - (10%) - Individual
  • Written > Project report - (20%) - Individual
  • Written > Lab/Practical report - (20%) - Individual

Note that 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.

Inadmissible Subject Combinations:  EA2200 EA2210 EA5048

Availabilities

Townsville Bebegu Yumba, Study Period 1, Internal

Census date:Thursday, 23 Mar 2023
Study Period Dates:Monday, 20 Feb 2023 to Friday, 16 Jun 2023
Coordinator(s):
DR Helen McCoy-West
Lecturer(s):
DR Helen McCoy-West
Workload expectations:The student workload for this 3 credit point subject is approximately 130 hours.
  • 39 Hours - Workshops
  • 26 Hours - Online activity