Search result: Catalogue data in Autumn Semester 2016
Earth Sciences Master | ||||||
Major in Geology | ||||||
Compulsory Module in Analytical Methods in Earth Sciences Students have to complete 6 credits in part A, and 6 credits in part B. | ||||||
Part A: Microscopy Courses | ||||||
Number | Title | Type | ECTS | Hours | Lecturers | |
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651-4045-00L | Microscopy of Metamorphic Rocks | W+ | 2 credits | 2G | P. Nievergelt | |
Abstract | Repetition of methods using optic properties of crystals and the polarising microscope. Identification of minerals and metamorphic parageneses. Description and interpretation of microstructures. Age relationship of crystallisation and deformation. Estimation of metamorphic grade. | |||||
Objective | - Advanced knowledge in optical mineralogy - Application of methods to determine minerals in thin sections - Identification and characterisation of metamorphic minerals - Description of rocks. Derive correct petrographic rock name, based on modal abundance and microstructure/texture - Interpretation of rock fabric/microstructure, parageneses and mineral reactions | |||||
Content | - Repetition of principal optical properties and of microscopic methods to identify minerals. Emphasis on interpretation of interference figures. - Study typical metamorphic rocks in thin sections - Description and interpretation of parageneses and texture/microstructures. Study the age relationship of crystallisation and deformation. - Estimation of metamorphic grade - Quantification: To determine volume percentage of rock components - Scientific documentation: Descriptions, drawings, photomicrography using different kinds of illumination and using plane- or circular-polarised light. | |||||
Lecture notes | handouts with additional information on theory and for exercises, in English. To brush up knowledge in optical mineralogy read the relevant chapters in the book of W.D. Nesse (2004). | |||||
Literature | - Nesse, W.D.: Introduction to optical mineralogy. 3. Ed. (2004). Figures from this book will be used in lectures. Besides the theory, this book describes all optical properties of important minerals. Petrographers working on varying types of silicate rocks should have a look at this book. -Yardley, B.W.D., Mackenzie, W.S. und Guilford, C. (1990): Atlas of metamorphic rocks and their textures. Longman Scientific. With nice pictures. Also available in the D-ERDW library, NO building, on D-floor. - Vernon, R.H. (2004): A practical guide to rock microstructures. Cambridge Univ. Press. 594 pages. Includes color photos and a glossary. | |||||
Prerequisites / Notice | Number of participants 24. Participants should have basic knowledge in crystallography, mineralogy and petrology, and have taken practical courses in microscopy of thin sections, as well as lectures in metamorphic petrology and structural geology! Other microscopy courses at department D-ERDW are on: - magmatic rocks, following this course in second half of semester (P. Ulmer, IGP; Inst. for Geochemistry and Petrology) - sedimentary rocks (Geol. Institute) - ore minerals (reflected light microscopy, Th. Driesner, IGP) - microstructures, deformed rocks (Geol. Institute) | |||||
651-4047-00L | Microscopy of Magmatic Rocks | W+ | 2 credits | 2G | P. Ulmer | |
Abstract | This course provides basic knowledge in microscopy of igneous rocks. Apart from the identification of common igneous minerals in thin sections, mineral assemblages, textures and structures will be investigated and the results of microscopy will be combined with igneous phase equilibria to understand generation, differentiation and emplacement of igneous rocks. | |||||
Objective | The principal goal of this course is to acquire expertise in : (1) optical determination of minerals in igneous rocks using the polarizing microscope (2) Identification of igneous rocks basing on modal mineralogy, structure and texture; (3) Interpretation of textures and structures and associated igneous processes; (4) Application of igneous phase diagrams to natural rocks. | |||||
Content | This practical course bases on the course 'Microscopy of metamorphic rocks' (P. Nievergelt), that is taught immediately before this course, where basic knowledge in optical mineralogy and the use of the polarizing microscope is acquired. In this course, the most important (common) igneous minerals and rocks are studied in thin sections under the polarizing microscope. Mineral assemblages, structures, textures and crystallization sequences are determined and utilized to understand the generation, differentiation and emplacement of igneous rocks. In addition, we will apply igneous phase equilibria that have been introduced in other lectures (such as magmatism and volcanism at ETH/Uni Zurich or an equivalent igneous petrology course) to natural rock samples in order to constrain qualitatively parental magma compositions and crystallization conditions. The range of investigated rocks encompasses mantle rocks, tholeiitic, calc-alkaline and alkaline plutonic and volcanic rocks that contain the most common igneous minerals. | |||||
Lecture notes | Basis of the optical determinations of (igneous) minerals using the polarizing microscope are the tables of Tröger ('Optische Bestimmung der gesteinsbildenden Minerale', Optical determination of rock-forming minerals, 1982) that are available in sufficient volumes in the class room. Some loose sheets will be distributed during the lecture providing additional information and templates for thin section descriptions. Additionally, I recommend the lecture notes of H.-G- Stosch (University of Karlsruhe, in German) that can be provided in printed form upon request. | |||||
Literature | There are several good textbooks on the subject of ´mineralogy in thin sections´ that I can suggest upon request. | |||||
Prerequisites / Notice | This course does not include an introduction in optical mineralogy and the use of a polarizing microscope and, therefore, bases on the course ¨Microscopy of metamorphic rocks¨ taught by P. Nievergelt immediately before this course where these basic principles are provided. Alternatively, e.g. for external students, an equivalent course is required to follow this practical course. Other microscope courses taught at ETH Zurich at the D-ERDW are: Microscopy of metamorphic rocks (P. Nievergelt, required for this course) Microscopy of sedimentary rocks (W. Winkler & Blaesi) Reflected light microscopy and ore deposits practical (T. Driesner) Microstructures (deformation structures, B. Cordnonnier) | |||||
651-4051-00L | Reflected Light Microscopy and Ore Deposits Practical | W+ | 2 credits | 2P | T. Driesner | |
Abstract | Introduction to reflected light microscopy. Use of the microscope. Identification of opaque minerals through the used of tables. Description of textures and paragenetic sequences. Given Participants should attend in parallel with Ore Deposits I (651-4037-00L). | |||||
Objective | Recognition of the most important ore minerals in polished section, interpretation of mineral textures in geologcal context | |||||
Content | Introduction to reflected light microscopy as a petrographic technique. Leaning main diagnstic criteria. Study of small selection of important and characteristic minerals. Interpreting polished (thin) sections as exercise | |||||
Lecture notes | To be handed out in class | |||||
Prerequisites / Notice | Credits and mark based on independent description of selected sample(s) towards the end of the course | |||||
651-4113-00L | Sedimentary Petrography and Microscopy | W+ | 2 credits | 2G | V. Picotti, M. G. Fellin | |
Abstract | Microscopy of carbonate (1st half of semester) and sliciclastic rocks (2nd half) rocks as well as siliceous, phosphatic and evaporitic sediements. | |||||
Objective | Description of grains and cement/matrix, texture, classification of the main sedimentary rocks. Discussion and interpretation of the environment of sedimentation. Diagenetic Processes. | |||||
Content | Microscopy of carbonate and siliciclastic rocks, siliceous and phosphatic rocks, their origin and classification. Diagenesis. | |||||
Lecture notes | English textbooks recommended | |||||
Literature | Tucker, M.E. (2001): Sedimentary Petrology-An introduction to the Origin of Sedimentary Rocks, 3rd Editition. Blackwell Science Ltd., Oxford, 262 p. | |||||
Prerequisites / Notice | The earlier attendance of other MSc microscopy courses (e.g. magmatic and metamorphic rocks) is not required if during the BSc a general course on microscopy of rocks was completed. | |||||
Part B: Methods | ||||||
Number | Title | Type | ECTS | Hours | Lecturers | |
651-4055-00L | Analytical Methods in Petrology and Geology | W+ | 3 credits | 2G | E. Reusser, S. Bernasconi, L. Zehnder | |
Abstract | Practical work in analytical chemistry for Earth science students. | |||||
Objective | Knowledge of some analytical methods used in Earth sciences. | |||||
Content | Introduction to analytical chemistry and atom physics. X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray fluorescence analysis (XRF), Electron Probe Microanalysis (EPMA), Laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectroscopy (LA-ICP-MS), Mass spectroscopy for light isotopes. | |||||
Lecture notes | Short handouts for each analytical method. | |||||
651-4117-00L | Sediment Analysis | W+ | 3 credits | 2G | M. G. Fellin, A. Gilli, V. Picotti | |
Abstract | Aims, usefulness and theoretical background of methods for sediment analysis. | |||||
Objective | The course offers a series of basic methods useful for the analysis of sediments. It is also offered to apply these methods on material collected for the the students Master or PhD projects. | |||||
Content | Staining of thin sections for feldspar and carbonate, peels of carbonate rocks, modal analysis of siliciclastic rocks, calcimetry and organic carbon measurement, heavy mineral analysis, cold cathodoluminescence microscopy of carbonate rocks, simple clay mineral separation, exoscopy of quartz grains. | |||||
Lecture notes | For the various analytical methods English texts are available from text books and scientific publications. | |||||
Literature | BOUMA. A.H. (1969): Methods for the study of sedimentary structures. Wiley-Interscience, 458 p. CARVER, R.E. (Ed.) (1971): Procedures in sedimentary petrology. Wiley-Interscience, 653 p. TUCKER, M. (Ed.) (1988): Techniques in sedimentology. Blackwell Scientific Publications, Oxford, 394 p. MANGE, M. A. & MAURER, H. F. (1992): Heavy minerals in colour, Chapman & Hall, 147 p. and various journal papers | |||||
Prerequisites / Notice | It is desirable but not excluding that the students bring their own material (Master or PhD project) for some of the analytical methods. | |||||
651-4031-00L | Geographic Information Systems Number of participants limited to 60. | W+ | 3 credits | 4G | A. Baltensweiler, M. Hägeli-Golay | |
Abstract | Introduction to the architecture and data processing capabilities of geographic information systems (GIS). Practical application of spatial data modeling and geoprocessing functions to a selected project from the earth sciences. | |||||
Objective | Knowledge of the basic architecture and spatial data handling capabilities of geographic information systems. | |||||
Content | Theoretical introduction to the architecture, modules, spatial data types and spatial data handling functions of geographic information systems (GIS). Application of data modeling principles and geoprocessing capabilities using ArcGIS: Data design and modeling, data acquisition, data integration, spatial analysis of vector and raster data, particular functions for digital terrain modeling and hydrology, map generation and 3D-visualization. | |||||
Lecture notes | Introduction to Geographic Information Systems, Tutorial: Introduction to ArcGIS Desktop | |||||
Literature | Longley, P. A., M. F. Goodchild, D. J. Maguire, and D. W. Rhind (2015): Geographic Information Systems and Science. Fourth Edition. John Wiley & Sons, Chichester, England. DeMers, M. N. (2009): Fundamentals of Geographic Information Systems. John Wiley & Sons, Hoboken, N.J., USA. | |||||
651-4063-00L | X-ray Powder Diffraction Number of participants limited to 12. | W+ | 3 credits | 2G | M. Plötze | |
Abstract | In the course the students learn to measure X-ray diffraction patterns of minerals and to evaluate these using different software for qualitative and quantitative mineral composition as well as crystallographic parameters. | |||||
Objective | Upon successful completion of this course students are able to: - describe the principle of X-ray diffraction analysis - carry out a qualitative and quantitative mineralogical analysis independently, - critically assess the data, - communicate the results in a scientific report. | |||||
Content | Fundamental principles of X-ray diffraction Setup and operation of X-ray diffractometers Interpretation of powder diffraction data Qualitative and quantitative phase analysis of crystalline powders (e.g. with Rietveld analysis) | |||||
Lecture notes | Selected handouts will be made available in the lecture | |||||
Literature | ALLMANN, R.: Röntgen-Pulverdiffraktometrie : Rechnergestützte Auswertung, Phasenanalyse und Strukturbestimmung Berlin : Springer, 2003. DINNEBIER, R.E. et al.: Powder Diffraction. Royal Society of Chemistry, Cambridge, 2008. (Link) PECHARSKY, V.K. and ZAVALIJ, P.Y: Fundamentals of Powder Diffraction and Structural Characterization of Materials. Springer, 2009. (Link) | |||||
Prerequisites / Notice | The course includes a high portion of practical exercises in sample preparation as well as measurement and evaluation of X-ray powder diffraction data. Own sample will be analysed qualitatively and quantitatively. Knowledge in mineralogy of this system is essential. The lecture course is limited to 12 participants. | |||||
Restricted Choice Modules Geology A minimum of two restricted choice modules must be completed for the major Geology. | ||||||
Palaeoclimatology | ||||||
Palaeoclimatology: Compulsory Courses | ||||||
Number | Title | Type | ECTS | Hours | Lecturers | |
651-4057-00L | Climate History and Palaeoclimatology | W+ | 3 credits | 2G | S. Bernasconi, B. Ausin Gonzalez, A. Fernandez Bremer, A. Gilli | |
Abstract | The course "Climate history and paleoclimatology gives an overview on climate through geological time and it provides insight into methods and tools used in paleoclimate research. | |||||
Objective | The student will have an understanding of evolution of climate and its major forcing factors -orbital, atmosphere chemistry, tectonics- through geological time. He or she will understand interaction between life and climate and he or she will be familiar with the use of most common geochemical climate "proxies", he or she will be able to evaluate quality of marine and terrestrial sedimentary paleoclimate archives. The student will be able to estimate rates of changes in climate history and to recognize feedbacks between the biosphere and climate. | |||||
Content | Climate system and earth history - climate forcing factors and feedback mechanisms of the geosphere, biosphere, and hydrosphere. Geological time, stratigraphy, geological archives, climate archives, paleoclimate proxies Climate through geological time: "lessons from the past" Cretaceous greenhouse climate The Late Paleocene Thermal Maximum (PETM) Cenozoic Cooling Onset and Intensification of Southern Hemisphere Glaciation Onset and Intensification of Northern Hemisphere Glaciation Pliocene warmth Glacial and Interglacials Millennial-scale climate variability during glaciations The last deglaciation(s) The Younger Dryas Holocene climate - climate and societies | |||||
Palaeoclimatology: Courses of Choice | ||||||
Number | Title | Type | ECTS | Hours | Lecturers | |
651-4043-00L | Sedimentology II: Biological and Chemical Processes in Lacustrine and Marine Systems Prerequisite: Successful completion of the MSc-course "Sedimentology I" (651-4041-00L). | W | 3 credits | 2G | V. Picotti, A. Gilli | |
Abstract | The course will focus on biological amd chemical aspects of sedimentation in marine environments. Marine sedimentation will be traced from coast to deep-sea. The use of stable isotopes palaeoceanography will be discussed. Neritic, hemipelagic and pelagic sediments will be used as proxies for environmental change during times of major perturbations of climate and oceanography. | |||||
Objective | -You will understand chemistry and biology of the marine carbonate system -You will be able to relate carbonate mineralogy with facies and environmental conditions -You will be familiar with cool-water and warm-water carbonates -You will see carbonate and organic-carbon rich sediments as part of the global carbon cycle -You will be able to recognize links between climate and marine carbonate systems (e.g. acidification of oceans and reef growth) -You will be able to use geological archives as source of information on global change -You will have an overview of marine sedimentation through time | |||||
Content | -carbonates,: chemistry, mineralogy, biology -carbonate sedimentation from the shelf to the deep sea -carbonate facies -cool-water and warm-water carbonates -organic-carbon and black shales -C-cycle, carbonates, Corg : CO2 sources and sink -Carbonates: their geochemical proxies for environmental change: stable isotopes, Mg/Ca, Sr -marine sediments thorugh geological time -carbonates and evaporites -lacustrine carbonates -economic aspects of limestone | |||||
Lecture notes | no script. scientific articles will be distributed during the course | |||||
Literature | We will read and critically discuss scientific articles relevant for "biological and chemical processes in marine and lacustrine systems" | |||||
Prerequisites / Notice | The grading of students is based on in-class exercises and end-semester examination. | |||||
Sedimentology | ||||||
Sedimentology: Compulsory Courses | ||||||
Number | Title | Type | ECTS | Hours | Lecturers | |
651-4041-00L | Sedimentology I: Physical Processes and Sedimentary Systems | W+ | 3 credits | 2G | V. Picotti | |
Abstract | Sediments preserved a record of past landscapes. This courses focuses on understanding the processes that modify sedimentary landscapes with time and how we can read this changes in the sedimentary record. | |||||
Objective | The students learn basic concepts of modern sedimentology and stratigraphy in the context of sequence stratigraphy and sea level change. They discuss the advantages and pitfalls of the method and look beyond. In particular we pay attention to introducing the importance of considering entire sediment routing systems and understanding their functionning. | |||||
Content | Details on the program will be handed out during the first lecture. We will attribute the papers for presentation on the 26th, so please be here on that day! | |||||
Literature | The sedimentary record of sea-level change Angela Coe, the Open University. Cambridge University Press | |||||
Prerequisites / Notice | The grading of students is based on in-class exercises and end-semester examination. | |||||
651-4043-00L | Sedimentology II: Biological and Chemical Processes in Lacustrine and Marine Systems Prerequisite: Successful completion of the MSc-course "Sedimentology I" (651-4041-00L). | W+ | 3 credits | 2G | V. Picotti, A. Gilli | |
Abstract | The course will focus on biological amd chemical aspects of sedimentation in marine environments. Marine sedimentation will be traced from coast to deep-sea. The use of stable isotopes palaeoceanography will be discussed. Neritic, hemipelagic and pelagic sediments will be used as proxies for environmental change during times of major perturbations of climate and oceanography. | |||||
Objective | -You will understand chemistry and biology of the marine carbonate system -You will be able to relate carbonate mineralogy with facies and environmental conditions -You will be familiar with cool-water and warm-water carbonates -You will see carbonate and organic-carbon rich sediments as part of the global carbon cycle -You will be able to recognize links between climate and marine carbonate systems (e.g. acidification of oceans and reef growth) -You will be able to use geological archives as source of information on global change -You will have an overview of marine sedimentation through time | |||||
Content | -carbonates,: chemistry, mineralogy, biology -carbonate sedimentation from the shelf to the deep sea -carbonate facies -cool-water and warm-water carbonates -organic-carbon and black shales -C-cycle, carbonates, Corg : CO2 sources and sink -Carbonates: their geochemical proxies for environmental change: stable isotopes, Mg/Ca, Sr -marine sediments thorugh geological time -carbonates and evaporites -lacustrine carbonates -economic aspects of limestone | |||||
Lecture notes | no script. scientific articles will be distributed during the course | |||||
Literature | We will read and critically discuss scientific articles relevant for "biological and chemical processes in marine and lacustrine systems" | |||||
Prerequisites / Notice | The grading of students is based on in-class exercises and end-semester examination. | |||||
Sedimentology: Courses of Choice | ||||||
Number | Title | Type | ECTS | Hours | Lecturers | |
651-4901-00L | Quaternary Dating Methods | W | 3 credits | 2G | I. Hajdas, S. Ivy Ochs | |
Abstract | Reconstruction of time scales is critical for all Quaternary studies in both Geology and Archeology. Various methods are applied depending on the time range of interest and the archive studied. In this lecture we focus on the six methods that are most frequently used for dating Quaternary sediments and landforms. | |||||
Objective | Students will be made familiar with the details of the six dating methods through lectures on basic principles, analysis of case studies, solving of problem sets for age calculation and visits to dating laboratories. At the end of the course students will: 1. understand the fundamental principles of the most frequently used dating methods for Quaternary studies. 2. be able to calculate an age based on data of the six methods studied. 3. choose which dating method (or combination of methods) is suitable for a certain field problem. 4. critically read and evaluate the application of dating methods in scientific publications. | |||||
Content | 1. Introduction: Time scales for the Quaternary, Isotopes and decay 2. Radiocarbon dating: principles and applications 3. Cosmogenic nuclides: 3He,10Be, 14C, 21Ne, 26Cl, 36Cl 4. U-series disequilibrium dating 5. Luminescence dating 5. K/Ar and Ar/Ar dating of lava flows and ash layers 6. Cs-137 and Pb-210 (soil, sediments, ice core) 7. Summary and comparison of results from several dating methods at specific sites | |||||
Prerequisites / Notice | Visit to radiocarbon lab, cosmogenic nuclide lab, noble gas lab, accelerator (AMS) facility. Required attending the lecture, visiting laboratories, handing back solutions for problem sets (Excercises) | |||||
651-4063-00L | X-ray Powder Diffraction Number of participants limited to 12. | W | 3 credits | 2G | M. Plötze | |
Abstract | In the course the students learn to measure X-ray diffraction patterns of minerals and to evaluate these using different software for qualitative and quantitative mineral composition as well as crystallographic parameters. | |||||
Objective | Upon successful completion of this course students are able to: - describe the principle of X-ray diffraction analysis - carry out a qualitative and quantitative mineralogical analysis independently, - critically assess the data, - communicate the results in a scientific report. | |||||
Content | Fundamental principles of X-ray diffraction Setup and operation of X-ray diffractometers Interpretation of powder diffraction data Qualitative and quantitative phase analysis of crystalline powders (e.g. with Rietveld analysis) | |||||
Lecture notes | Selected handouts will be made available in the lecture | |||||
Literature | ALLMANN, R.: Röntgen-Pulverdiffraktometrie : Rechnergestützte Auswertung, Phasenanalyse und Strukturbestimmung Berlin : Springer, 2003. DINNEBIER, R.E. et al.: Powder Diffraction. Royal Society of Chemistry, Cambridge, 2008. (Link) PECHARSKY, V.K. and ZAVALIJ, P.Y: Fundamentals of Powder Diffraction and Structural Characterization of Materials. Springer, 2009. (Link) | |||||
Prerequisites / Notice | The course includes a high portion of practical exercises in sample preparation as well as measurement and evaluation of X-ray powder diffraction data. Own sample will be analysed qualitatively and quantitatively. Knowledge in mineralogy of this system is essential. The lecture course is limited to 12 participants. | |||||
Structural Geology | ||||||
Structural Geology: Compulsory Courses | ||||||
Number | Title | Type | ECTS | Hours | Lecturers | |
651-4132-00L | Field Course IV: Non Alpine Field Course Does not take place this semester. Number of participants limited to 24. | W+ | 3 credits | 6P | J.‑P. Burg | |
Abstract | Field Course to Oman. The students will produce a geological map write and a complementing field report. | |||||
Objective | ||||||
Prerequisites / Notice | Successful participation in Field Courses I-III. | |||||
Structural Geology: Courses of Choice | ||||||
Number | Title | Type | ECTS | Hours | Lecturers | |
651-4003-00L | Numerical Modelling of Rock Deformation | W | 3 credits | 2G | M. Frehner | |
Abstract | Introduction to the programming software Matlab. Learning and understanding the continuum mechanics equations describing rock deformation. Mathematical equations describing rock rheology: elasticity + viscosity. Introduction to the finite-element method for modeling rock deformation in 2D. A small applied project-work at the end of the semester will be tailored to the student's interest. | |||||
Objective | At the end of this course, the students should be able to - Use Matlab for their future needs (e.g., for their MSc Thesis) - Understand the fundamental concept of the finite-element method - Apply the finite-element method to successfully work on a small project tailored to the student's interests. In addition, innovative methods will be applied to mark the performance in the course, which includes self-evaluation and peer-evaluation among the students. Therefore, some soft-skills will be required and trained as well, such as - honest self-evaluation and self-grading - providing honest feedback to a colleague in a tone that is acceptable - receiving feedback from a colleague without taking criticism personal - learning the procedure of scientific peer-evaluation | |||||
Content | Introduction to Matlab Continuum mechanics equations necessary to describe rock deformation Rheological equations: elasticity + viscous materials Introduction to the finite-element method (in 1D) Numerical integration + isoparametric elements Going to 2D finite elements Finite-element method for 2D elasticity Stress calculation + visualization Finite-element method for 2D viscous materials Heterogeneous media Final project-based work tailored to the student's interest. A substantial part of the lecture will take place in the computer-lab, where numerical finite element codes will be applied. The used software is Matlab. Students may bring their own laptop with a pre-installed copy of Matlab. | |||||
Lecture notes | The script is very diverse and ranges from PowerPoint-based pdf-files, to self-study tutorials. Also, the more theoretical and mathematical aspects will be explained on the black board without a proper script. All lecture-presentations, as well as the numerical codes, will be made available to the students online. | |||||
Literature | There is no mandatory literature. The following literature is recomended: Turcotte D.L. and Schubert G., 2002: Geodynamics, Cambridge University Press, ISBN 0-521-66624-4 Pollard D.D. and Fletcher R.C., 2005: Fundamentals of Structural Geology, Cambridge University Press, ISBN 978-0-521-83927-0 Ranalli G., 1995: Rheology of the Earth, Chapman & Hall, ISBN 0-412-54670-1 Smith I.M. and Griffiths D.V., 2004: Programming the Finite Element Method, John Wiley & Sons Ltd, ISBN 978-0-470-849-70-5 Zienkiewicz O.C. and Taylor R.L., 2000: The Finite Element Method - Volume 1: The Basis, Butterworth Heinemann, ISBN 0-7506-5049-4 | |||||
Prerequisites / Notice | A good knowledge of linear algebra is expected. The used software is Matlab. So, knowledge of Matlab is advantageous. Students may bring their own laptop with a pre-installed copy of Matlab. | |||||
651-4111-00L | Rock Physics | W | 3 credits | 2G | A. S. Zappone, K. Kunze, C. Madonna | |
Abstract | The modern discipline of Rock Physics serves as a bridge between traditional Rock Mechanics and traditional Rock Physical Property measurement. Through understanding the physics of the process, we strive to better understand other related fields such as structural geology and geophysics. | |||||
Objective | The objective of this course is to introduce Rock Physics as a laboratory and interpretive tool. | |||||
Content | The course will consists of regular classes, with a small number of laboratory demonstrations made on an ad-hoc basis (depending on equipment and research objective schedules at the Rock Deformation Laboratory). The course will cover measurements of physical properties of rock such as density, porosity, permeability and elastic wave velocity, and will introduce the concept of seismic seismic anisotropy etc. Later we will cover rock deformation in the brittle field, earthquake physics and triggering. Finally we will discuss scale effects as we move from small scale laboratory environment to the scale of the geophysical investigation. | |||||
Prerequisites / Notice | Undergraduate courses in the following subjects are highly recommended in order to get the most out of this specialist course: - Basic structural Geology - Geophysics | |||||
651-3521-00L | Tectonics | W | 3 credits | 2V | J.‑P. Burg, E. Kissling | |
Abstract | Comprehensive understanding of evolution, mechanics, and rheology of divergent, convergent and wrenching tectonic systems from the lithospheric scale to local shallow crustal and outcrop-scales. Evaluation of plate tectonic and other orogenic processes through the study of reference examples of taken in Alps-Himalaya orogenic system. | |||||
Objective | Comprehensive understanding of evolution, mechanics, and rheology of divergent, convergent and wrenching tectonic systems from the lithospheric scale to local shallow crustal and outcrop-scales. Assessment of mechanisms responsible for plate movements (the Earth as a heat transfer machine, dynamics of earth mantle, plate driving forces) and subsequent large-scale structures (oceanic basins and cycle of the oceanic lithosphere, convergence and mountain systems and continental growth, etc) through theoretical and experimental information. Evaluation of plate tectonic and other orogenic processes through the study of reference examples of taken in Alps-Himalaya orogenic system. | |||||
Content | Plate tectonic frame work: earth cooling and mantle-plate interaction, three kinds of plate boundaries and their roles and characteristics, cycle of oceanic lithosphere, longlifety and growth of continents, supercontinents. Rheology of layered lithosphere and upper mantle. Obduction systems Collisions systems Extensional systems Basin evolution Passive and active continental margin evolution | |||||
Lecture notes | Detailed scriptum in digital form and additional learning moduls (Link) available on the intranet. | |||||
Literature | Condie, K. C. 1997. Plate tectonics and crustal evolution. Butterworth-Heinemann, Oxford. Cox, A. & Hart, R. B. 1986. Plate tectonics. How it works. Blackwell Scientific Publications, Oxford. Dewey, J. F. 1977. Suture zone complexities: A review. Tectonophysics 40, 53-67. Dewey, J. F., Pitman III, W. C., Ryan, W. B. F. & Bonin, J. 1973. Plate tectonics and the evolution of the Alpine system. Geological Society of America Bulletin 84, 3137-3180. Kearey, P. & Vine, F. J. 1990. Global tectonics. Blackwell Scientific Publications, Oxford. Park, R. G. 1993. Geological structures and moving plates. Chapman & Hall, Glasgow. Turcotte, D. L. & Schubert, G. 2002. Geodynamics. Cambridge University Press, Cambridge. Windley, B. F. 1995. The evolving continents. John Wiley & Sons Ltd, Chichester. | |||||
Biogeochemistry | ||||||
Biogeochemistry: Compulsory Courses The compulsory courses of the module take place in spring semester. | ||||||
Biogeochemistry: Courses of Choice | ||||||
Number | Title | Type | ECTS | Hours | Lecturers | |
651-4058-00L | Basics of Palaeobotany (University of Zurich) Does not take place this semester. No enrolment to this course at ETH Zurich. Book the corresponding module directly at UZH. UZH Module Code: BIO280 Mind the enrolment deadlines at UZH: Link | W | 3 credits | 2G | University lecturers | |
Abstract | The course "Basics in Palaeobotany" gives an overview on the evolution and palaeobiology of plants and their relevance for the reconstruction of past environments. | |||||
Objective | On successful completion of the module, the students should be able to explain how plants are preserved in the fossil record, to describe the morphology of plant mega fossils, and of spores and pollen. They can describe how plant fossils can be used for reconstructing palaeoenvironments. Students should be able to explain the interactions between evolution of plants, climate and physical environment and they will be able to integrate the dimension of geological time into their understanding of biological events. | |||||
Content | -Preservation of plants in the fossil record. -First evidence for plants on Earth -The conquest of the continents by plants -Major adaptation and innovations leading to the present plant diversity -The evolution and morphology of the major plant groups -Plant associations through geological time and their palaeogeographic and stratigraphic relevance -Mass extinctions and the fossil plant record -Interaction between past vegetation and climate -The relevance of plant microfossils for reconstruction of palaeoclimate and palaeoecology | |||||
651-4043-00L | Sedimentology II: Biological and Chemical Processes in Lacustrine and Marine Systems Prerequisite: Successful completion of the MSc-course "Sedimentology I" (651-4041-00L). | W | 3 credits | 2G | V. Picotti, A. Gilli | |
Abstract | The course will focus on biological amd chemical aspects of sedimentation in marine environments. Marine sedimentation will be traced from coast to deep-sea. The use of stable isotopes palaeoceanography will be discussed. Neritic, hemipelagic and pelagic sediments will be used as proxies for environmental change during times of major perturbations of climate and oceanography. | |||||
Objective | -You will understand chemistry and biology of the marine carbonate system -You will be able to relate carbonate mineralogy with facies and environmental conditions -You will be familiar with cool-water and warm-water carbonates -You will see carbonate and organic-carbon rich sediments as part of the global carbon cycle -You will be able to recognize links between climate and marine carbonate systems (e.g. acidification of oceans and reef growth) -You will be able to use geological archives as source of information on global change -You will have an overview of marine sedimentation through time | |||||
Content | -carbonates,: chemistry, mineralogy, biology -carbonate sedimentation from the shelf to the deep sea -carbonate facies -cool-water and warm-water carbonates -organic-carbon and black shales -C-cycle, carbonates, Corg : CO2 sources and sink -Carbonates: their geochemical proxies for environmental change: stable isotopes, Mg/Ca, Sr -marine sediments thorugh geological time -carbonates and evaporites -lacustrine carbonates -economic aspects of limestone | |||||
Lecture notes | no script. scientific articles will be distributed during the course | |||||
Literature | We will read and critically discuss scientific articles relevant for "biological and chemical processes in marine and lacustrine systems" | |||||
Prerequisites / Notice | The grading of students is based on in-class exercises and end-semester examination. |
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