PETROGRAPHY WITH LABORATORY

Module PETROGRAPHY

Knowledge and understanding

Acquisition of knowledge and understanding of mineralogical-petrographic data and technical terminology for determining the structural and compositional features of igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks.

Applying knowledge and understanding

Ability to recognize and describe, using appropriate scientific terminology, the main mineralogical and structural characteristics of igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks. Ability to correctly classify examined samples and formulate interpretations regarding their origin and formation environment.

Making judgements

Ability to integrate macroscopic and microscopic observations and critically evaluate available data to select the most appropriate criteria for the classification and petrogenetic interpretation of samples.

Communication skills

Ability to describe and discuss the structural and compositional characteristics of rocks using correct technical-scientific language. Ability to write laboratory reports and present collected data clearly and effectively.

Learning skills

Ability to independently apply petrographic observation and classification methodologies and to deepen knowledge through the use of petrographic atlases, digital resources, and specialized scientific literature.

In presence

Basic notions of mineralogy and general geology.

Attendance is not mandatory, but it is essential for students to acquire the skills necessary to achieve the course objectives.

Understanding petrogenetic processes, recognition and description of igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic rocks. Rock description and classification. Representation and interpretation of geochemical data for rock petrographic characterization.

1) Introduction to Petrography;

2) The study of rocks: investigation methods;

- mesoscopic analyses

- microscopic analyses in thin sections: modal analysis

- chemical analyses: major, minor, and trace elements; analytical methods (XRF, ICP-MS, INAA); normative analyses;

- diffractometric analyses

3) Recall of the Earth's structure; continental and oceanic crust; the mantle;

4) Magma: viscosity, density, and temperature;

5) Minerals of igneous rocks

6) Structures of igneous rocks

7) Classification of igneous rocks:

- bedding classification: intrusive rocks; extrusive rocks; vein-like rocks

- mineralogical classification: AQPF diagram for intrusive rocks; classification diagrams for gabbroic rocks; classification diagrams for ultramafic rocks;

- chemical classification

8) Basic petrochemical concepts;

9) Notes on the evolution of magmas;

10) Main phase diagrams for igneous rocks;

11) Evolution of magmas;

12) Magmatic series;

13) Magmas and geodynamic environments;

14) Sedimentary rocks;

15) Basic chemical and physical concepts for the study of sedimentary rocks;

16) Rock disintegration; sediment transport; sedimentation; diagenesis;

17) Sedimentary environments;

18) Mechanical sedimentation, chemical sedimentation, and organogenic sedimentation;

19) Minerals of sedimentary rocks;

20) Psephitic rocks, psammitic rocks, and pelitic rocks;

21) Carbonate rocks

22) Evaporitic rocks;

23) Carbonaceous and bituminous rocks

24) The metamorphic process: introduction, factors, and mechanisms;

25) Structure of metamorphic rocks;

26) Concept of metamorphic facies;

27) Minerals of metamorphic rocks;

28) Prograde and retrograde metamorphism;

29) Nomenclature of metamorphic rocks

30) Metamorphic transformations in the main rock systems;

31) Types of metamorphism and geodynamic setting.

32) Anchimetamorphism;

33) Anathexis and the genesis of granitoid rocks;

34) Metamorphic facies;

35) Metamorphism of basic, pelitic, and carbonate rocks.

Le Maitre R.W. (2002): Igneous Rocks. A classification and Glossary of terms. Cambridge University Press, pp. 236.

L. Morbidelli (2014). Le rocce e i loro costituenti. Seconda edizione. Bardi Ed., Roma

Recognition, description and classification of igneous, metamorphic and sedimentary rock samples at mesoscopic and microscopic scales.

Discussion of phase diagrams; classification of the main igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic rocks; metamorphic facies.