COURSES IN GEOLOGY

STRUCTURAL GEOLOGY

Techniques in structural geology; classification of structures in geology; structures due to sedimentation and tectonics; introduction to types of analyses; deformation analysis, factors affecting deformation, principles of deformation; fractures, joints and their classification, indication of bedding plane, fracture analysis; types, indications and formation of faults and folds, foliation and cleavage. Structures in crystalline rocks; major and minor structures. Practical classes involve analyzing and interpreting structural data using equal area projection. Interpreting structures on geological map, outcrop, hand specimen and block diagram. The practical part also involves observation of structures in the field.

SEDIMENTOLOGY

Sedimentology is the study of sediment, particularly on how it is transported, and deposited. Sedimentary processes taking place during the transportation to deposition, classification of sedimentary rocks and identifying sedimentary environments. This course emphasizes on fundamental understanding of the mechanics of sediment transport and deposition, including the nature of grains and sedimentary structures.Instroduction to sedimentary petrography and classification of sedimentary rocks. Introduction to facies analysis and sedimentary environment of clastic and carbonate sediments. Interpretation of ancient sedimentary rocks and sedimentary environments.

PETROLOGY

Classification and nomenclature of igneous and metamorphic rocks based on mineral composition and textures. Natural magma; nature, composition and origin. Magmatic evolution; differentiation, assimilation and hybridization. Equilibrium and fractional crystallization in simple unary and binary systems and their relationship to phenomena in igneous rocks. Basic concepts: progressive regional metamorphism, grade,isograd, isothermal, isobar, zone, facies, facies series, pressure-type metamorphism, K-A inversion line, pair metamorphic belts. Metamorphic reactions. Practical parts involve basic petrographic techniques such as staining and point counting on outcrops, hand specimens, as well as thin sections and systematic description and classification of common rocks using microscope. Interpretation on origin and evolution of igneous and metamorphic rocks based on microscopic study will also be treated in the practical sessions.

GEOLOGICAL MAPPING TECHNIQUE

Basic geological mapping, safety. Mapping equipments and its uses, field amenities, field maps and field notebooks, samplings.  Geological maps, cross-sections and  stratigraphic sections. Basic procedures in the field: observations, interpretation, taking field notes, drawing and photographing, field measurements, identifying rocks and field naming. Techniques in mapping rock units: pace and compass traverse, tracing contacts between rock units, correlating geologic units, mapping geologic structures.  Practical classes involve exercise in preparing base maps, topographic maps and geologic maps by using the stated techniques; river and road traversing, and grid on the beach.  Students are required to prepare geological maps,a cross-section and a field reports for every exercise.