Course Description

Course Name

Physical Geology

Session: VCPS3118

Hours & Credits

24 Host University Units

Prerequisites & Language Level

Course entry requirements: GEO2001F, PHY1031F or equivalent

Taught In English

  • There is no language prerequisite for courses at this language level.

Overview

Course outline:
This course builds on the previous mineralogy course and explores the physical processes involved in igneous, metamorphic and sedimentary rock formation, modification and destruction as follows: Stratigraphy of South Africa; transport and deposition of siliciclastic sediment; sedimentary textures and structure;. siliciclastic, carbonate, evaporitic and other sedimentary rocks; earthquakes, stress, displacement and strain; brittle and ductile deformation; classification and petrography of igneous rocks; physical processes in magma chambers; the relationship between chemical and mineralogical composition; types of metamorphism, metamorphic textures and mineral assemblages.

*Course content subject to change