GEO 345 Petrology

Petrology is the study of the origin, tectonic occurrence, geochemical evolution, and classification of igneous and metamorphic rocks. Students will address questions related to the origin of the Earth's crust through examination of the textures, mineral assemblages, field relations, and compositional characteristics of igneous and metamorphic rocks. Laboratory work will engage students in the study of rocks in hand specimen and microscope, as well as the analysis and interpretation of experimental and geochemical datasets. Includes one three-hour laboratory per week and multiple field trips.