| Code | Faculty |
|---|---|
| 02240141 | Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences |
| Credits | Duration |
|---|---|
| Duration of study: 1 year | Total credits: 135 |
Renewal of registration
In calculating marks, General Regulation G.12.2 applies.
Apart from the prescribed coursework, a research project is an integral part of the study.
A BSc degree in Geology with an average of 60% for all the geology modules at third-year level. In the selection procedure the candidate's complete undergraduate academic record will be considered. The positions available are limited to 25 and candidates who have progressed faster through their undergraduate degree will take preference. Outside applicants and those with unusual degree structures may be admitted after perusal of their academic records and at the discretion of the head of department.
Minimum credits: 135
Module content:
This module traces the path of magmas from their ultimate source in the mantle, storage and evolution in the crust, through eruption at the surface where they interact with the landscape and atmosphere. Volcanic eruptions and the transfer of mass and volatiles from the deep interior of the planet. Transformation of the landscape by violent eruptions, and impact on the atmosphere on short timescales. An integrated history of magmatism and its central role in the production of the crust and the degassing history of the planet. The fluid dynamics of volcanoes, from viscous magma flows to turbulent, multiphase eruptions.
Module content:
Physical properties of rocks and minerals: porosity and permeability; density; magnetic properties; natural radioactivity; elastic properties; seismic wave attenuation; thermal properties; electrical properties. Basic principles and applications of various geophysical techniques: gravity, magnetic, resistivity, electromagnetic, seismic and radiometric techniques. Principles of basin analysis; controls on sea level change; subsurface analytical methods; basin mapping methods; subsidence analysis (decompaction and sediment loading, subsidence curves); sequence stratigraphy; sedimentation systems in different basin types; Precambrian basins.
Module content:
Precambrian crustal evolution. Precambrian plate tectonics. Precambrian evolution of the African plate (Eburnean, Kibaran and Pan-African events). Phanerozoic evolution to the African plate; global examples of tectonics as a continental crustal source. Determination of deformational history of crustal rocks; determination of palaeostress conditions in ancient crustal rocks. Practical experience of structural analysis and determination of deformational history.
Module content:
Systematic review of major metallic and non-metallic ore types and examples in South Africa and world-wide; ore type models (geometry, size, geodynamic setting, grade, chemistry/mineralogy). Controlling legislation and infrastructural requirements for mining. . Mining methods: open cast and underground. Metallurgical treatment, metallurgical plants and waste disposal. Pollution, acid drainage and acid rain.
Module content:
Mapping and analysis of a geologically complex area using different techniques.
Module content:
Independent acquisition of geological field and/or laboratory data, treatment and interpretation thereof, and writing of an honours essay.
Module content:
Interpretation and application of advanced petrogenetic tools: the Rb/Sr and Sm/Ndisotopic systems, quantitative interpretation of binary and ternary phase diagrams, assimilation-fractional crystallisation – partial melting. Abundance of elements in the crust, crust-forming models. Hydrous geochemistry. Recognition of geochemical anomalies. Analytical methods and the treatment of geochemical data.
Module content:
Geothermometers and geobarometers, PT-t loops. Studies of major African and other mobile belts: Limpopo, Natal-Namaqua, Pan-African and Hoggar.
Module content:
Basic remote sensing methods and their applications to geology; basic geophysical and geochemical exploration techniques; exploration target generation - philosophies and methods; professional geological practice; the SAMREC and similar codes; geologists in the business environment; case studies. Practical component (runs parallel to theory above) encompasses ore-microscopy; ore mineral identification; ore textures; analysis of ore assemblages; instrumental techniques applied to ores.
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