Study information

Ore Genesis - 2023 entry

MODULE TITLEOre Genesis CREDIT VALUE15
MODULE CODECSMM425 MODULE CONVENERProf Jens C. Andersen (Coordinator), Dr Hannah Hughes
DURATION: TERM 1 2 3
DURATION: WEEKS 10 0 0
Number of Students Taking Module (anticipated) 30
DESCRIPTION - summary of the module content

This module builds on Mineral Deposit Geology (CSM3046) and Ore Deposit Geology (CSM M109) to provide a more in depth understanding of the nature and formation of ore mineral deposits. You will critically evaluate models for the formation of ore deposits with reference to data from case examples. Your understanding will be enhanced through detailed studies of mineral assemblages and textures in hand specimens, thin section and polished blocks. The module will develop skills for the study of ore mineral assemblages by reflected light microscopy. The module is not suitable for non-specialist students or interdisciplinary pathways.

PRE- / CO-REQUISITE MODULES – Either Mineral Deposit Geology (CSM3046) as prerequisite, or Ore Deposit Geology (CSM M109) as co-requisite.

 

AIMS - intentions of the module

To develop an understanding of the techniques that are employed to study metalliferous ore deposits.

To critically evaluate published models for the formation of ore deposits.

To further develop the student’s recognition and understanding of ore-related minerals by the use of hand specimens, transmitted and reflected light microscopy. To enhance the student’s ability to record and interpret mineral textures to improve their understanding of ore genesis and to test published deposit models. To develop an understanding of common techniques used for the development of petrogenetic models (mineralogy, geochemistry, fluid inclusion studies).

 

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. Explain the nature and economic significance of a range of metalliferous ore deposits.

2. Provide a critical evaluation of published models for the formation of ore deposits.

3. Recognise a wide range of ore-related minerals and be able to interpret ore textures to text and develop models for their formation.

 

Discipline Specific Skills and Knowledge

4. Record observations and data, evaluate these with reference to published conceptual models and from this to make geological interpretations.

 

Personal and Key Transferable / Employment Skills and Knowledge

5. Develop hypotheses which can be tested through the collection and analysis of multiple types of data.

6. Give an oral presentation and prepare a written report to professional standards.

 

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

The module will develop aspects of ore deposit research through examples of magmatic-related; magmatic-hydrothermal; hydrothermal; and surface deposits.

 

- Introductory overview of ore deposit classification and nomenclature.

- Introduction to ore mineralogy and petrography.

- The interpretation of ore paragenesis and mineralogy in the study of ore formation.

- The use of mineral chemistry for ore formation.

- The use of major and trace element geochemical data for mineral deposits.

- The use of stable and radiogenic isotope geochemistry for ore deposit studies.

- The use of fluid inclusions in ore deposit studies.

 

- Students will through group work and seminars critically examine published (and unpublished) ore deposit models with reference to specific case examples. Group presentations will be used to initiate discussions around the weight and balance of evidence for ore formation in different scenarios, and suggest ways that the evidence can be improved.

 

- Practical sessions will develop skills for ore mineralogy and petrography using reflected light microscopy, hand specimens and transmitted light microscopy where appropriate. They will further develop skills for the manipulation of analytical data for the purpose of development of petrogenetic models.

 

LEARNING AND TEACHING
LEARNING ACTIVITIES AND TEACHING METHODS (given in hours of study time)
Scheduled Learning & Teaching Activities 40 Guided Independent Study 110 Placement / Study Abroad 0
DETAILS OF LEARNING ACTIVITIES AND TEACHING METHODS
Category Hours of study time Description
Scheduled learning and teaching activities 25 Formal lectures and practical classes on the nature, formation and extractive properties of ore deposits.
Scheduled learning and teaching activities 15 Student seminars critically evaluating models for the formation of key ore deposits illustrated using case study examples, with feedback from the module leader and other students in the class.
Guided Independent study 110 Independent study guided by reading list, including research to underpin the student’s oral presentation and written report.

 

ASSESSMENT
FORMATIVE ASSESSMENT - for feedback and development purposes; does not count towards module grade
Form of Assessment Size of Assessment (e.g. duration/length) ILOs Assessed Feedback Method
None      

 

SUMMATIVE ASSESSMENT (% of credit)
Coursework 55 Written Exams 0 Practical Exams 45
DETAILS OF SUMMATIVE ASSESSMENT
Form of Assessment % of Credit Size of Assessment (e.g. duration/length) ILOs Assessed Feedback Method
Practical examination 45
Two hour examination on the identification of ore mineral assemblages in hand specimen, transmitted and reflected light (or alternative digital techniques)
 1-5 Feedback to individuals on request.
Class Oral Presentation 35 20 minute group presentation with 10 minutes for questions and class discussion. 1-6 Oral and written feedback from module leader and fellow students.
Two ELE quizzes 20 Two 30 minute quizzes each with a selection of multiple choice questions. 1-6 ELE provides instant feedback at the termination of each quiz

 

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
Written report Additional Written report 1-2, 4-5 August ref/def period
Examination Additional Examination 1-5 August ref/def period

 

RE-ASSESSMENT NOTES

Re-assessment will be a written report (55%) and practical exam (45%) only. Re-assessment will not be possible for the oral presentation or ELE quizzes.

 

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:

Craig and Vaughan, Ore microscopy and ore petrography, open access version:

http://www.minsocam.org/msa/OpenAccess_publications/Craig_Vaughan/

 

Web based and Electronic Resources:     

ELE: http://vle.exeter.ac.uk/

 

Other Resources:

  

Reading list for this module:

Type Author Title Edition Publisher Year ISBN
Set Robb, L. Introduction to Ore-forming Processes Blackwell 2005
Set Evans, A. Ore Geology and Industrial Minerals 3rd Blackwell Science 1993
Set Open University Physical resources and environment. Course 268 Open University 1995
CREDIT VALUE 15 ECTS VALUE 7.5
PRE-REQUISITE MODULES CSM3046
CO-REQUISITE MODULES CSMM109
NQF LEVEL (FHEQ) 7 AVAILABLE AS DISTANCE LEARNING No
ORIGIN DATE Thursday 6th July 2017 LAST REVISION DATE Friday 3rd February 2023
KEY WORDS SEARCH Mineral deposits, ores, mineralisation, critical metals, industrial minerals, paragenesis.

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