Objectives:
The Earth¿s outer part is composed of a limited number of rigid plates that move relative to one another along dynamic active edges. The goal of the course is to give an overview of the physical forces that control mantle convection, and its dynamical interaction with the plates. The students will get an in-depth knowledge about the geological processes that control oceanic spreading, rifting of continents, continent collision zones, mountain belt formation, subduction zones and lateral shear zones. The course will also be an opportunity to discuss the interaction between plate tectonics and mantle plumes, or to explore the plate tectonic situation in other telluric planets.
Content:
The course is divided in two parts. Part 1 introduces the most important elements of global plate tectonics and the interaction between its controlling physical forces. During this part, a short introduction of geochemical principles is giving students a new tool to study various geological processes linked to plate tectonic; from the formation of the oceanic crust to its subduction under volcanic arc. Part 2 introduces other important factors that control plate tectonics, like heat flow, rock strength, different deformation styles and different models for continental rifting. The evolution of the North Atlantic is discussed in detail, from subduction, via continental rifting, to formation of oceanic crust along the mid-Atlantic Ridge.
Knowledge
The student
Skills
The student
General competence
The student
Part I (6 weeks) - Lectures, 4 hours/week
Part II (6 weeks) - Lectures and e-modules, 4 hours/week
The forms of assessment are:
Note: If there are less than 10 students registered for the final exam, an oral exam may be given instead of a written one.
All parts of the exam must be graded as "Passed" to get final assessment in the course.
The student coordinator can be contacted here:
Tlf 55 58 35 19