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Course Goals:
This course is designed to introduce students to the concepts, techniques and terminology used by geologists to describe and analyze rocks of the Earth's crust that have been deformed since their formation. The science of structural geology challenges us to view the Earth in three-dimensions and to visualize its varied structures beyond simple map or cross-sectional views. The skills learned in this class are essential to interpreting the geologic history of any deformed region and are necessary to performing practical tasks that you might later be called on to accomplish in job fields, such as the environmental, petroleum or mineral exploration areas.
To accomplish our goals, we will begin by developing the essential skills of analyzing and describing structures three-dimensionally and then we will use these skills to interpret structures depicted on maps and cross sections. We will then discuss brittle structures of the Earth's crust in terms of the stress conditions that cause them to form. Our goal is to be able to understand a faulted and fractured outcrop and to comment on the probable conditions of their formation. We will then discuss more ductile structures found in mountain belts and use this as a forum to discuss strain of rocks and how to determine the amount of deformation suffered by rocks at deep levels in the Earth.
As structural geology describes features found in the world's mountain belts, we will frame our discussions in terms of regional tectonics. We will discuss the tectonics of the U.S. Basin and Range Province as a context for our discussion of brittle structures. Similarly, the tectonics of the Appalachians will serve as a venue in describing more ductile structures.
Caveat: I want to say up front that the three-dimensional visualization of structures and of forms in general, can be both an innate as well as a learned skill. Psychologists have determined that this abiliity has something to do with brain structure and that it is easier for some than for others. Obviously, some of you will have no problem with three-dimensional visualization while others will struggle at first. Be comforted by the fact that everyone can become comfortable with this ability and please do not become discouraged if you have trouble at first...that is what I am here for!
Grading Policies: There will be two "midterm" examinations and a final examination covering the lecture and reading material. Quizzes can be expected in both the laboratory and lecture portions of the class and may or may not be announced. Laboratory and field trip assignments will also considered in the final course grade. The final course grade will be calculated with the following weights:
| Lecture Exam 1 | 20% |
| Lecture Exam 2 | 20% |
| Lab Assignments | 30% |
| Final Exam | 25% |
| Quizzes & Excercises | 5% |
Office Hours: I do not have formal office hours for this class but have a number of time slots available throughout the week for student consultation. Please sign-up to see me for any reason in the unshaded 1/2 hour time slots on the calender outside of my office, Room 117, Scovel Hall.
Students are expected to observe the rules of academic conduct outlined in Scott's Key.
Penalty for Late Assignments: Grades for assignments will be lowered one full grade
for each day that the assignment is late.
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