Introduction to composition, texture, classification, origin, evolution and distribution of the major rock groups based on established field relationships and experimental determinations. Laboratory emphasis on hand samples and thin-sections. The course includes three hours of lecture and six hours of laboratory a week. Lecture presents the basic information of petrology. The student is asked to read related journal articles as a supplement to lecture.
Laboratory includes the use of hand samples and thin-sections to examine each of the rock groups.
Field trips are included. Students will also make a thin-section and prepare a detailed report on it. Students will gain knowledge and skills that can be used for further study in advanced courses, graduate graduate school, and in industry. Assessment is based on a number of lecture exams and laboratory exercises and exams on each rock group, and a final thin-section report. Lecture exams will assess the student's knowledge of the theory and origin of rocks.