GEOS 303 - Igneous and Metamorphic Petrology

Institution:

Williams College

Subject:

Geosciences

Description:

Using plate tectonics and the geologic assembly of New England as a template, this course explores the origin of crystalline rocks - volcanic, plutonic, and metamorphic - that comprise 94% of the earth's crust and record most of its history. Field and lab studies (the crux of the course) are backed up by phase-rule applications and fundamental thermodynamic principles. Chemical and mineralogical compositions and rock fabrics provide evidence for crystallization or re-crystallization processes and environments, particularly as they define present or past plate boundaries or tectonic settings. Lab work emphasizes thin section analysis, with a 3-week segment devoted to interpreting the igneous rocks of New England collected on field trips..

Credits:

3.00

Credit Hours:

Prerequisites:

Geosciences 202 or consent of the instructor

Corequisites:

Exclusions:

Level:

Instructional Type:

Lecture

Notes:

Additional Information:

Historical Version(s):

Institution Website:

www.williams.edu

Phone Number:

(413) 597-3131

Regional Accreditation:

New England Association of Schools and Colleges

Calendar System:

Four-one-four plan

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