James Cook University Subject Handbook - 2023

EA5048 - Minerals and Magmas

Subject Description

Mineralogy as applied to rocks, sediments and soils. Applications of the polarising microscope to mineral identification and textural interpretation of Earth materials. Introductory mineral chemistry and its applications. Characterisation and description of igneous rocks in terms of major element geochemistry, mineralogy, texture, genetic processes and tectonic setting. Characterisation of metamorphic rocks. Metamorphic facies, isograds and thermal metamorphism.

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 - (15%) - Individual
• Written > Lab/Practical report - (25%) - 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 EA2220

Availabilities