Module GL3323: Crystalline Rocks 2: metamorphic processes and crustal melting

Contact hours & timing:

Module Learning Aims:

(1) To broaden and deepen the skills for identification and description of metamorphic rocks in hand specimen and thin section. (2) To provide an understanding of how metamorphic rocks are classified. (3) To develop an appreciation of how textural relationships amongst minerals can be used to infer the history of a metamorphic rock. (4) To gain knowledge of the role of fluids and partial melting during metamorphism.

Module Content:

This module introduces the main types of metamorphic rock in the context of the precursor rock and the geological setting. It examines the effects of pressure, temperature, fluid migration, stress history and partial melting. The rocks are investigated at the scale of their tectonic environment, their local occurrence and in the hand specimen as well as under the microscope.

Learning Outcomes:

On successful completion of this module students should be able to:

• identify metamorphic rocks in hand specimen and in thin section, and explain their petrogenesis
• independently provide a robust macroscopic and microscopic rock description and correctly interpret mineral textures
• demonstrate how the chemistry of the precursor rock and the physical conditions of metamorphism dictate the mineralogy of a metamorphic rock
• describe how fluids are taken up and released by crustal and mantle rocks during metamorphism at low temperature and at high temperature

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