GEOL 3150

Students explore volcanic and magmatic processes as fundamental to the transfer of energy and materials from the interior to exterior of the planet, and Earth's evolution through geologic time. Through this exploration students gain an understanding of the chemical and physical processes that melt and crystallize rocks, causes and implications of volcanism and volcanic products, the relationship of igneous processes to plate tectonics, volcanic landforms, and the methods in which igneous rocks are studied to interpret geologic history. The curriculum is designed to instill an appreciation for the importance of igneous processes to societies and the environment, including energy and mineral resources, and geologic hazards.