Structural geology

Description

Introduction to structural analysis and basic concepts of deformation including stress (e.g. Mohr circle) vs strain.  Description and characterization of geological structures: faults, folds, foliations, lineations, cleavages. Homogeneous and heterogeneous deformation (shear zones), principle of the ellipsoid of deformation, main observation sections and determination of flow direction and geometry.  Folding mechanisms of a layer, multilayer system, harmonic and disharmonic folding.  Introduction to microstructural analysis.  Characterization of key structures expected in convergent, extensional and strike slip tectonic systems. Projection methods, construction of structural elements using stereographic projection. Methods of structural mapping, construction of sections and structural maps.

Compétences visées

By the end of this class students should be able to:

·        Understand and apply fundamental concepts of brittle and ductile deformation.

·        Understand and recognize the different tectonic structures accommodating deformation from the microscopic scale to the lithosphere scale.

·        Evaluate the mechanical and rheological properties of rocks based on the observation of geological structures.

·        Work with stereographic projection and be able to produce structural map and cross-sections.

Syllabus

Brittle and ductile Deformation, Fault, Shear zone, Rheology, Stress/strain, Extensional and contractional tectonics

Bibliographie

Structural Geology by Haakon Fossen

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