Study information

Mineral Deposit Geology - 2019 entry

MODULE TITLEMineral Deposit Geology CREDIT VALUE15
MODULE CODECSM3046 MODULE CONVENERProf Jens C. Andersen (Coordinator)
DURATION: TERM 1 2 3
DURATION: WEEKS 10 0 0
Number of Students Taking Module (anticipated) 32
DESCRIPTION - summary of the module content

This module aims to equip you with knowledge on the nature and formation of ore deposits and industrial minerals. During the practical sessions you will study hand specimens, thin sections of rocks and polished blocks containing ore minerals, and associated maps, to determine the characteristics and mode of origin of the ore deposit being study.
 

Prerequisites for this module are Structural Geology and Tectonics (CSM2182) and Igneous and Metamorphic Petrology (CSM2312).

AIMS - intentions of the module

This module is concerned with the study of the more important metalliferous and industrial minerals deposits. Attention is given to their general geological characteristics and the controls on their formation. Practical training is given in techniques for recording geological data pertaining to mineral deposits.
 

INTENDED LEARNING OUTCOMES (ILOs) (see assessment section below for how ILOs will be assessed)

On successful completion of this module you should be able to:

Module Specific Skills and Knowledge

1. recognise and describe the characteristics of the major mineral deposit types
2. understand the processes which lead to the concentration or formation of ore and industrial mineral deposits
3. recognise the mineralogical and petrological signatures of a variety of deposit types, identify and analyse their assemblages, textural relationships and paragenesis and relate these to the mode and timing of ore formation.
 

Discipline Specific Skills and Knowledge

4. make scientific observations, recognising similarities between these and stated models and using these observations to determine or support geological interpretations

Personal and Key Transferable / Employment Skills and Knowledge

5. apply problem-solving skills and appropriate technology to acquire and interpret a range of geological data synthesise data and interpretations into professional reports
 

 

SYLLABUS PLAN - summary of the structure and academic content of the module

Geological framework (sources, pathways, agents, and deposition) of mineral deposits; Processes involved in deposit formation and genesis (structural and lithological controls to mineralisation); Descriptive characteristics and physical/chemical properties of ore deposits.

Although the exact deposit types under consideration may change, a typical syllabus plan would include: Orebody models, classification and nomenclature. Tectonic and metallogenic framework of ore deposits. Magmatic-related deposits (Cr-Fe-Ti oxides, Ni-Cu-Co sulphides, PGE). Deposits formed at the magmatic-hydrothermal transition (porphyry deposits). Hydrothermal deposits (VMS, epithermal systems). Placers and palaeoplacers. Orebodies related to sedimentation and weathering (e.g. iron ores, placer deposits, bauxites)
 

LEARNING AND TEACHING
LEARNING ACTIVITIES AND TEACHING METHODS (given in hours of study time)
Scheduled Learning & Teaching Activities 36 Guided Independent Study 114 Placement / Study Abroad 0
DETAILS OF LEARNING ACTIVITIES AND TEACHING METHODS
Category Hours of study time Description
Scheduled learning & teaching activities 36 Lectures and practical classes
Guided independent study 114 Independent study
     

 

ASSESSMENT
FORMATIVE ASSESSMENT - for feedback and development purposes; does not count towards module grade
SUMMATIVE ASSESSMENT (% of credit)
Coursework 40 Written Exams 60 Practical Exams 0
DETAILS OF SUMMATIVE ASSESSMENT
Form of Assessment % of Credit Size of Assessment (e.g. duration/length) ILOs Assessed Feedback Method
Assignment 1 10 1500 word equivalent 1-5 Written
Assignment 2 15 2500 word equivalent 1-5 Written
Examination 60 2 hours 1-4 Written
ELE Online quizzes 15 3 quizzes, 5% each 1-4 Written
         

 

DETAILS OF RE-ASSESSMENT (where required by referral or deferral)
Original Form of Assessment Form of Re-assessment ILOs Re-assessed Time Scale for Re-assessment
Coursework Coursework 1-5 August ref/def period
Examination Examination 1-4 August ref/def period
       

 

RE-ASSESSMENT NOTES

As above 1 piece of CW 40% and/or 1 Exam 60%

RESOURCES
INDICATIVE LEARNING RESOURCES - The following list is offered as an indication of the type & level of
information that you are expected to consult. Further guidance will be provided by the Module Convener

Basic reading:

 

ELE: http://vle.exeter.ac.uk/

 

Web based and Electronic Resources:

 

Other Resources:

 

Reading list for this module:

Type Author Title Edition Publisher Year ISBN
Set Ridley J Ore Deposit Geology Cambridge University Press 2013 978-1-107-02222-5
CREDIT VALUE 15 ECTS VALUE 7.5
PRE-REQUISITE MODULES CSM2182, CSM2312
CO-REQUISITE MODULES
NQF LEVEL (FHEQ) 6 AVAILABLE AS DISTANCE LEARNING No
ORIGIN DATE Tuesday 10th July 2018 LAST REVISION DATE Tuesday 10th July 2018
KEY WORDS SEARCH Ore deposits, economic geology

Please note that all modules are subject to change, please get in touch if you have any questions about this module.