JDM 501E - Geodynamics

Course Objectives

The purpose of the course is to teach basic information and concepts on the structure, composition,
evolution of the Earth with special reference to the continental crust. Within this framework, the
students will learn
? Rheological and compositional subdivisions of the Earth’s mantle and crust and its relation
to the plate tectonics
? The origin, tectonic setting of magmatism and metamorphism
? Determination of formation and cooling ages of the magmatic and metamorphic rocks
? Geological structures, their variety and conditions of formation.
? Deformation, magmatism and metamorphism in extensional and contractional environments

Course Description

Earth – internal structure and composition; mantle and crust versus astenosphere and lithosphere; the concept
of isostasy; Plate tectonics – principles and exceptions; Continental and oceanic crust – formation, structure,
composition and evolution; Magmatism and magmatic processes in the continental crust; Magmatism and
magmatic processes in the oceanic crust; ophiolite concept; Metamorphism – tectonic setting, metamorphic
facies; Metamorphic processes and reactions; Isotopic dating of magmatic and metamorphic rocks; Geological
structures – brittle and ductile; Extensional tectonics and rifting – deformation, magmatism and metamorphism;
Subduction – deformation, accretionary complexes, metamorphism and magmatism; Large strike-slip faults –
structures and basin formation; Orogeny – time, deformation, metamorphism and magmatism.