Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Fall 2019 - EASC 400 D100

Selected Topics in Earth Sciences (3)

Advanced Petrology

Class Number: 4546

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Location: TBA

  • Instructor:

    Brendan Dyck
    brendand@sfu.ca
    1 778 782-5389
    Office: TASC 1 Room 7233

  • Prerequisites:

    To be determined by instructor.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

An advanced, in-depth treatment of a specialized area of earth sciences.

COURSE DETAILS:

General:
This course presents the principles of phase equilibria as applied to metamorphic rocks. An overview of thermodynamic datasets and Gibbs energy minimization routines is presented and accompanied by hands-on tutorials using Thermocalc and Perplex/Theriak-Domino. The commonly employed forward and inverse modelling techniques will be reviewed, and within the course framework there will be opportunity for student-led research projects that employ these techniques.     

Recommended courses: undergraduate courses in metamorphic petrology (or permission of instructor)

Course Topics:

  1. Conventional geothermobarometry
  2. Multivariant thermobarometry (AvePT)
  3. P-T Isochemical equilibrium assemblage diagrams (i.e. pseudosections)
  4. T-X, P-X diagrams
  5. Contours (isomodes and isopleths)
  6. Fluid activity and partial melting
  7. Advanced applications (P-T paths)
  8. Advanced applications (forward modelling crustal processes)
  9. Advanced applications (chemical potential diagrams)   

Course Organization: One 3 hour combined lecture/tutorial in the computer laboratory per week. Weekly assignments. 2 term research projects (P-T determination, forward modelling).

Grading

  • Lab Assignments 20%
  • Research Project 70%
  • Class Participation 10%

Materials

RECOMMENDED READING:

The course does not use a specific textbook. I recommend the following books for background:

  1. Thermodynamics: Elementary Thermodynamics for Geologists. BJ Wood & DG Fraser. Oxford University Press.
  2. Metamorphic petrology: Principles of Igneous and Metamorphic Petrology. AR Philpotts & JJ Ague. Cambridge University Press.

Registrar Notes:

SFU’s Academic Integrity web site http://www.sfu.ca/students/academicintegrity.html is filled with information on what is meant by academic dishonesty, where you can find resources to help with your studies and the consequences of cheating.  Check out the site for more information and videos that help explain the issues in plain English.

Each student is responsible for his or her conduct as it affects the University community.  Academic dishonesty, in whatever form, is ultimately destructive of the values of the University. Furthermore, it is unfair and discouraging to the majority of students who pursue their studies honestly. Scholarly integrity is required of all members of the University. http://www.sfu.ca/policies/gazette/student/s10-01.html

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS