Earth Sciences

AIMS

Through laboratory work, the course introduces students to:

• the chemistry and physical properties of minerals;
• morphological elements of crystallography;
• the optical properties of minerals, introduced in conjunction with use of the petrographic microscope;
• the physical, chemical and optical properties of the major rock-forming mineral groups.

OUTCOMES

Students will become familiar with the following concepts:

• Phase diagrams;
• Atomic Structure and bonding in crystalline solids;
• Principles of structural architecture: including close packing, coordination, number, interstitial sites, coordination polyhedra;
• Elementary crystallography;
• Principles of crystal optics;
• Use of the polarizing microscope.

In addition, they will have a thorough knowledge of the physical, chemical and optical properties of the major rock-forming mineral groups.

Practical and Transferable Outcomes:

• Interpretation of phase diagrams;
• Determination of crystal systems from morphological observations;
• Use of the polarizing microscope to identify major rock-forming minerals;
• Effective communication of information in writing;
• Comprehension of scientific concepts, data and papers;
• Independent study;
• IT skills.

CONTENT

Topics studied in laboratory work include:

• Phase Diagrams;
• The factors that determine mineral structures;
• Introduction to Crystallography;
• Introduction to Crystal Optics;
• Mineral and Silicate Classification;
• Olivine and Garnet Groups;
• Al2SiO5 Polymorphs;
• Pyroxene Group;
• Amphibole Group;
• Sheet Minerals;
• Silica Polymorphs;
• Feldspars;
• Zeolites;
• Carbonates;
• Accessory minerals;
• Oxides;
• Sulphur minerals;
• Other non-silicate minerals.