Skip to content

Module Catalogue

Breadcrumbs navigation

ES4009   Geodynamics

Academic year(s): 2019-2020

Key information

SCOTCAT credits : 15

ECTS credits : 7

Level : SCQF level 10

Semester: 2

Availability restrictions: Not automatically available to General Degree students

Planned timetable: Lectures: 9.00 am - 11.00 am Tue (Weeks 1, 8-11) 9.00 am - 10.00 am Tue Wed (weeks 2-7) Practical: 9.00 am - 5.00 pm Fri (Week 6)

A study of the geodynamic evolution of Earth's crust since the Archaean, the evolution of convergent and divergent margins, and the relationships between deep Earth geodynamics, surficial tectonics, erosion, climate, and biosphere. The module investigates how fundamental geodynamic processes operate and impact the rock record and contrasts geodynamic evolution over time. The module develops skills of geodynamic interpretation, use of numerical models, palaeogeoraphic and metadata analysis. Students will undertake an independent research project culminating in a manuscript-style report for continuous assessment; and there will be a final exam focusing on continental tectonics.

Relationship to other modules

Pre-requisite(s): Before taking this module you must pass ES2002 and pass ES2003

Anti-requisite(s): You cannot take this module if you take ES5009

Learning and teaching methods and delivery

Weekly contact: 2 hour lectures (11 weeks), 7 hour practical (1 week)

Scheduled learning hours: 30

Guided independent study hours: 120

Assessment pattern

As used by St Andrews: Coursework = 50%, 2-hour Written Examination = 50%

As defined by QAA
Written examinations : 50%
Practical examinations : 0%
Coursework: 50%

Re-assessment: Coursework = 20%, 2-hour Written Examination = 80%

Personnel

Module coordinator: Professor R W White
Module teaching staff: Dr T Raub, Prof. R White
Module coordinator email rww3@st-andrews.ac.uk