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The occurrence and origin of economically significant geological resources in NZ and overseas. Metallic and non-metallic minerals with emphasis on gold and coal resources. Ground water and surface water resources, their contamination and remediation.
The course provides an introduction to the nature and origin of metallic and non-metallic mineral deposits, and their importance in the global economy. It also considers the nature of groundwater resources, discussing both contamination and remediation of surface and ground waters. The course concludes with a review of current issues in resource geology, including peak oil, future energy sources, carbon emissions, and long-term environmental management/sustainability.
Students successfully completing this course will:Understand the nature and origin of the more common metallic and non-metallic mineral deposits, including gold and coal.Appreciate the economic background to mineral extraction and recovery, and limits to resource sustainability.Be able to recognise common economic minerals and ores in hand specimen, including weathering products.Understand the nature, occurrence and movement of groundwater, and the physical and chemical factors influencing its utilisation.Have a basic knowledge of ground and surface water contamination issues, including acid mine drainage, and of remediation techniques.Be familiar with the global issues related to utilisation of geological resources, including peak oil, greenhouse emissions and environmental management.
Entry subject to HOD approval.
Travis Horton
David Bell
Robb, L. J; Introduction to ore-forming processes ; Blackwell Pub, 2005.
Younger, Paul L; Groundwater in the environment : an introduction ; Blackwell Pub, 2007.
The required prerequisites for GEOL233 are GEOL111 "Planet Earth" and GEOL112 "Understanding Earth History". With HOD permission, GEOL113 "Environmental Geohazards" may be substituted for either GEOL111 or GEOL112.RP: GEOL232The course includes a 1-day field trip to local sites (quarries, mines and groundwater) to study resource and environmental management issues. A field trip contribution of $15 per student will be levied on enrolment in the course.
Domestic fee $471.00
International fee $2,087.00
* 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 .