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 Structural Geology and Interpretation of Geological Maps
Code ENVS263
Coordinator Dr GJ Potts
Earth, Ocean and Ecological Sciences
Gpotts@liverpool.ac.uk
Year CATS Level Semester CATS Value
Session 2023-24 Level 5 FHEQ Second Semester 15

Aims

To develop an understanding of the geometric, kinematic and temporal relationships between similar and dissimilar structures.

To develop an understanding of the role of finite strain in the analysis of selected geological structures.

To develop an understanding of the role of stress in the analysis of selected geological structures.

To develop, using examples, strategies for the analysis and interpretation of geological maps.


Learning Outcomes

(LO1) Know the common associations of small- and large-scale geological structures

(LO2) Understand the principles of finite strain and stress in two and three dimensions.

(LO3) Interpret kinematic indicators.

(LO4) Explain the origins of selected geological structures using kinematic and dynamic analyses and models.

(LO5) Determine the relative ages of pairs of geological structures.

(LO6) Determine the stratigraphy, structure and geological history of an area from the information displayed on geological maps.

(LO7) Construct appropriate diagrams from geological maps and other data that enable geometric and kinematic interpretations to be completed.

(LO8) Construct valid deformation histories from the relative ages of pairs of geological structures.

(LO9) Construct chronostratigraphic diagrams from the information displayed on geological maps.


Syllabus

 

Lecture topics will be selected from

Faults and fault systems
Fault and fracture populations
Stress analysis
Fracturing
Homogeneous transformations and displacements
Variations of strain parameters with orientation
Foliations and lineations
Kinematic modelling of folds
Kinematic modelling of shear zones
Superimposed strains
Chronostratigraphical diagrams from geological maps
Analysis of intrusions displayed on geological maps
Analysis of folds displayed on geological maps
Plunge projection of folds
Analysis of fold shape
Construction of cross - sections and profile planes using the Busk construction
Isogon methods for non - parallel folds
Analysis of faulting and folding: Balancing cross - sections and profile planes
Analysis of faults on geological maps
Interactions between faulting and sedimentation

Practical topics will be selected from

Stereographic analysis of angles: Pitch, Angle s between lines and planes and apparent dip
Stereographic analysis of rotations
Analysis of separations obtained from cross - sections drawn using angles obtained from stereographic projection
Three - point problems. Outcrop traces of geological contacts
Kinematic analysis of faults
Strain analysis: Plane strain simple shear as an example
Kinematic modelling of folds: Flexural shear as an example
Kinematic modelling of shear zones: Heterogeneous plane strain simple shear as an example
Construction of relative deformation histories and geological histories
Analysis of unconformities displayed on geological maps
Construction of chronostratigraphic diagrams from geological maps Plunge projection of folds
Construction of cross - sections and fold profile planes using the Busk
Analysis of faults and intrusions on geological maps


Teaching and Learning Strategies

Teaching method: Laboratory Work
Description:
Laboratory work will be used to illustrate theoretical concepts and develop practical skills.
The part of the laboratory work forms the basis of the practical examination.

Teaching Method: Lecture
Description:
Lectures will be used to introduce new topics, identify the scope of each topic, highlight key points within it and explain the more complex or difficult parts and, where necessary, resolve conflicts that you might encounter in textbooks.


Teaching Schedule

  Lectures Seminars Tutorials Lab Practicals Fieldwork Placement Other TOTAL
Study Hours 20

    20

    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
Theory examination comprising diagrammatic and essay based asswers  90    50       
The practical examination has no sections, answer all questions (90 minutes); A series of questions that address key parts of the stratigraphy, structure and geological history of an area displayed  90    50       
CONTINUOUS Duration Timing
(Semester)
% of
final
mark
Resit/resubmission
opportunity
Penalty for late
submission
Notes
Canvas quiz  20         
Canvas quiz  20         
Canvas quiz  20         

Recommended Texts

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