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The aim of this course is to develop a fuller understanding of the nature of plate tectonics and continental break up, mantle convection and hot spots, and the deep structure of the Earth as determined from global geophysical observations.
The course introduces the large-scale geometry and processes of plate tectonics, including continental breakup. The principles of global geophysics covering seismology, paleomagnetism, geomagnetism, heat flow, including the influence of fluid flow and isostasy provide a broader overview of the nature of global processes, linked closely to modern day observation and plate tectonic theory. The links between igneous and metamorphic processes and plate tectonics are explored, and may include such topics as large igneous provinces (LIPs), hot spots, etc.What the course entails:Two lectures and one practical class per week.
Students successfully completing this course should:have developed a fuller understanding of the nature of plate tectonics, the structure of the Earth’s crust and interior and continental breakup;have begun to develop an understanding of petrological structure and processes in a plate tectonic context;develop an understanding of the basic principles of global geophysics in the fields of seismicity, magnetism, isostasy and heat flow, and their relationship to plate tectonics and the structure of the Earth’s interior.
GEOL111 and GEOL112 (GEOL113 or GEOL114 may be substituted for either of these provided a candidate has attained an overall B grade in GEOL 100 level courses, ora standard which is acceptable to the HOD).
Laboratories will be held in Room 221 on Level 2 of the Geological Sciences building.
David Nobes
Uwe Ring
Fowler, C. M. R; The solid earth : an introduction to global geophysics ; 2nd ed; Cambridge University Press, 2005.
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Relationship of GEOL236 to Other CoursesGEOL111 Planet Earth and GEOL112 Understanding Earth History are prerequisites for GEOL236, or with the permission of the Head of Department, GEOL113 or GEOL 114 and either GEOL111 or GEOL112. GEOL236 is a prerequisite for GEOL334 Geodynamics and the Development of the NZ Region. It may be used in partial fulfilment of the prerequisites for GEOL351 and 352, GEOL337, and GEOL338.
Domestic fee $434.00
International fee $1,953.00
* All fees are inclusive of NZ GST or any equivalent overseas tax, and do not include any programme level discount or additional course-related expenses.
For further information see Geological Sciences .