MINERALOGY AND ROCK CONSTITUENTS WITH LABORATORY

Module MINERALOGY AND ROCK CONSTITUENTS

Furthermore, with reference to the Dublin Descriptors, this course contributes to the acquisition of the following transversal skills:

Knowledge and understanding:

-    inductive and deductive reasoning skills

-    ability to schematize a natural phenomenon in terms of scalar and vector physical quantities

-    ability to set up and solve a problem using appropriate spatial relationships between recognizable geometric elements in a three-dimensional model representing an ideal mineral, using graphical, analytical or numerical methods

-    ability to recognize simple geometric elements in natural mineral samples and/or three-dimensional models, and use scientific instruments to carry out simple experimental tests

-    ability to understand the physical characteristics of rock forming minerals.

Ability to apply knowledge:

-    ability to apply acquired knowledge to the description of minerals at mesoscopic and microscopic scales with the aid of a polarizing microscope, using the scientific method rigorously

-    ability to identify elements of symmetry in three-dimensional models;

-    ability to represent mineral compositions on binary and ternary diagrams.

Independent judgement:

- Critical thinking skills

-    ability to identify the most appropriate methods for critically analyzing, interpreting and processing experimental data

-    ability to assess the accuracy of measurements and the sensitivity and selectivity of the techniques used

Communication skills:

-    ability to present scientific topics orally and/or in writing with appropriate linguistic precision and to illustrate their rationale and results.

Learning skills:

-    ability to read, understand and critically analyze scientific texts and topics with a particular focus on mineralogy

-    ability to independently learn new scientific topics in the field of Mineralogy that are necessary for further studies.

Information for students with disabilities and/or Specific Learning Difficulties (SLDs):

In order to ensure equal opportunities and comply with current legislation, interested students may request a personal interview to plan any compensatory and/or dispensatory measures based on educational objectives and specific needs. You can also contact Prof. Giorgio De Guidi, the CInAP (Centre for Active and Participatory Integration – Services for Disabilities and/or Specific Learning Difficulties) reference teacher in our department.

Attendance at lectures and laboratory sessions will allow students to follow a consistent and informed path in the study of Mineralogy. Attendance is mandatory and is considered completed if the student has attended at least 50% of the required curricular hours.

If the course is taught in a blended or distance learning format, any necessary changes to the previously stated curriculum may be made in order to comply with the established program outlined in the syllabus.

1. Mineralogia - Klein C. - Zanichelli Editore, 2004.

2. Introduzione ai minerali che costituiscono le rocce - William A. Deer, Robert A. Howie, Jack Zussman, G. Della Ventura, E. Paris – Zanichelli ed. 1994

TO ENSURE EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES AND IN COMPLIANCE WITH APPLICABLE LAWS,

INTERED STUDENTS MAY REQUEST A PERSONAL INTERVIEW

TO PLAN ANY COMPENSATORY AND/OR EXEMPLARY MEASURES,

BASED ON THEIR EDUCATIONAL OBJECTIVES AND SPECIFIC NEEDS.

IT IS ALSO POSSIBLE TO CONTACT THE DIRECTOR OF CINAP (CENTER FOR ACTIVE AND PARTICIPATORY INTEGRATION - SERVICES FOR DISABILITIES

AND/OR DSA) IN OUR DEPARTMENT, PROFESSOR G. De Guidi.

Physical properties of minerals.

Properties of crystalline solids and amorphous solids.

Identify the crystalline structure represented in a mesoscopic model.

Chemical elements constituting minerals.

Crystal symmetries. Laws of coexistence of symmetry elements.

Structure and composition of pyroxenes.

Isomorphic mixtures: the example of olivines.

Polymorphism. Examples.

Phase diagrams: what are they for?