Key facts
UNE unit code: GEOL318
*You are viewing the 2027 version of this unit which may be subject to change in future.
- Trimester 1 - On Campus
- Trimester 1 - Online
- Armidale Campus
- Yes
- Yes
- Yes
- 6
Unit information
In this unit, you will explore the physical and chemical properties of some of the common Earth materials, with a focus on why specific elements/groups of elements can be concentrated in certain geological environments. Topics include exploring a crystal lattice, appreciating the structure of atoms, understanding the use of trace elements and exploring different geochemical reservoirs observed in/on the Earth.
You will be introduced to the theory and practical aspects of conducting geochemical/mineralogical analysis, and gain a working knowledge of how a geologist may apply different analytical techniques to environmental management and mineral exploration.
Practical exercises include making meaningful calculations with real-world datasets to explore thermobarometry, geochronology, and trace element data evaluation. Additionally, you will learn about minerals and metals of the future – what and where they are and why they’re important to a changing society.
Offerings
For further information about UNE's teaching periods, please go to Principal Dates.
| Teaching period | Mode/location |
|---|---|
| Trimester 1 | On Campus, Armidale Campus |
| Trimester 1 | Online |
*Offering is subject to availability
Intensive schools
| Start | Finish | Duration | Attendance | Offerings | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| TBA | TBA | 5 days | Mandatory Intensive School | All offerings | Dates to be advised. Both on-campus and online students must attend the mandatory intensive school. This intensive school contains a field trip. |
Enrolment rules
Notes
Please refer to the student handbook for current details on this unit.
Unit coordinator(s)
Learning outcomes
Upon completion of this unit, students will be able to:
- asses the fundamental concepts and mechanism that result in ore formation in select deposit types;
- evaluate and identify the different styles of alteration and mineralization observed in hand samples and in the field;
- interpret the geological history of rocks based on the observed mineralogical, textural and geochemical trends;
- critique the geological processes and mineralogical changes observed indifferent rocks observed in the mineralizing environment;
- use geochemical data – particularly the distribution of key elements to help constrain/interpret petrogenetic processes; and
- evaluate the importance of minerals, fluids and geology by determining and differentiating how society uses specific Earth materials.
Assessment information
Assessments are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
| Title | Must Complete | Weight | Offerings | Assessment Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Final Examination - Assurance Task | Yes | 30% | All offerings | There is a supervised exam at the end of the teaching period in which you are enrolled. The exam will be offered online with supervision via webcam and screen sharing technology. Coordinated by UNE Exams Unit. To pass this unit, you must achieve at least 50% in this task and meet all other passing requirements in the unit.
|
| Major Report | Yes | 30% | All offerings | Major report based on intensive school and datasets explored during unit. |
| Practical Exercises - Assurance Task | Yes | 40% | All offerings | Practical exercises completed at the mandatory intensive school. No. Words: 3000 To pass this unit, you must achieve at least 50% in this task and meet all other passing requirements in the unit. |
Learning resources
Textbooks are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
Note: Recommended material may be held in the University Library — purchase is optional.
Manual of Mineral Science
ISBN: 9780471721574
Klein, C., & Dutrow, B., John Wiley & Sons Inc (US) 23rd Edition 2007
Text refers to: All offerings
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