Module Details
The information contained in this module specification was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change, either during the session because of unforeseen circumstances, or following review of the module at the end of the session. Queries about the module should be directed to the member of staff with responsibility for the module.
Title Global Geophysics and Geodynamics
Code ENVS398
Coordinator Professor AJ Biggin
Earth, Ocean and Ecological Sciences
A.Biggin@liverpool.ac.uk
Year CATS Level Semester CATS Value
Session 2022-23 Level 6 FHEQ Second Semester 15

Aims

To impart an advanced understanding of lithospheric-scale active tectonics, and the ability to carry out mathematical calculations to understand and analyse tectonic processes;

To introduce the students to advanced topics and research frontiers in core/mantle dynamics and evolution;

To improve MATLAB/python programming skills initially acquired in ENVS229;

To develop skills appropriate to understanding, synthesising and communicating peer-reviewed research literature.

Learning Outcomes

(LO1) Describe and explain principles and details of active tectonic processes

(LO2) Apply mathematical methods to describe tectonic processes

(LO3) Describe and explain current theories and controversies regarding the dynamics of Earth from its surface to core and the methods used to study these topics.

(S1) Numeracy

(S2) Critical analysis and synthesis

(S3) Programming

(S4) Communication – written & oral

Syllabus
 

This module consists of two parts. Part 1 focuses on the Earth's mantle and core from the point of view of current theories and studies from the scientific literature. In this part, students will watch lectures, read selected papers, and take part in group discussions sessions. Part 2 focuses on the lithosphere from the point of view of global geophysical data and simple physical models that can be used to describe them. In this part, students will watch lectures, read textbook chapters, and work with geophysical datasets and models in computer-based practicals.

Teaching and Learning Strategies

Asynchronous:

1. Recorded lectures: Weekly assigned videos to watch before practicals and discussion sessions.
2. Reading assignments: Weekly reading of scientific papers and short book chapters.

Synchronous:

1. Group discussion sessions based on reading assignments.
2. Computer-based practicals to work with datasets and models.

Teaching Schedule
  Lectures Seminars Tutorials Lab Practicals Fieldwork Placement Other TOTAL
Study Hours   15

       10

15

 40
Timetable (if known)              
Private Study 110
TOTAL HOURS 150

Assessment
EXAM Duration Timing
(Semester)		 % of
final
mark		 Resit/resubmission
opportunity		 Penalty for late
submission		 Notes
Written exam. There is a resit opportunity. Standard UoL penalty applies for late submission. This is an anonymous assessment.  120    50       
CONTINUOUS Duration Timing
(Semester)		 % of
final
mark		 Resit/resubmission
opportunity		 Penalty for late
submission		 Notes
Poster presentation assignment addressing lithosphere dynamics. There is a resit opportunity. Standard UoL penalty applies for late submission. This is not an anonymous assessment.  0    25       
Assignment addressing deep Earth research topics There is a resit opportunity. Standard UoL penalty applies for late submission. This is an anonymous assessment.  0    25       

Recommended Texts
Reading lists are managed at readinglists.liverpool.ac.uk. Click here to access the reading lists for this module.