Advanced Structural Geology Syllabus
Instructor: Scott Paterson
Office SCI 307; phone = 06103; email = paterson@usc.edu.
Office Hours: TBA and anytime my door is open.
Catalogue Description
Advanced field and theoretical aspects of rock deformation, strain and stress analyses, and evolution of structural systems. Includes lab, field trip(s), and class project.
Prerequisites: GEOL 321 or equivalent.
Lectures: M 1-3:30, Room SCI 200. I will give the majority of the lectures. You are expected to actively participate in class discussions and give one class presentation.
Labs: Thursday, 2-4 pm., Room ZHS 127.
Look at structures in hand samples.
Perform strain analyses (Rf/, March, Fry, Incremental methods).
Bring: Metric ruler, compass, pencils, tracing paper.
Potential class projects:
1. Pick one strain/fabric analysis technique and write program for doing it.
2. Evaluate primary fabrics in rocks.
3. Synthesize strain/structural data in part of an orogen, determine inferred displacement field, and summarize in paper.
4. Incorporate strain analyses in your research and produce paper.
5. Design and produce a powerpoint presentation on an “advanced structural geology” topic.
Readings:
1. Means, W. D., 1976. Stress and Strain: basic concepts of continuum mechanics for geologists. Springer-Verlag, New York, 339 p.
2. Ramsay, J. G., and Huber, M. I., 1983. The techniques of modern structural geology. Vol. 1, Strain analysis. Academic Press, London, 307 p.
3. Ramsay, J. G., and Huber, M. I., 1987. The techniques of modern structural geology. Vol. 2, Folds and fractures. Academic Press, London, 462 p.
4. Selected papers from various journals (see topical reading list)
Grades:
Class participation & readings 30%
Class project/exam 30%
Lab assignments 40%