Introduction to Geology

Instructor: Prof. Claudio Mazzoli

Department of Geosciences,
University of Padova

e-mail: claudio.mazzoli@unipd.it

Office time: e-mail me for an appointment

The Course will provide information about
Introduction to Geology

Introduce you to the basic concepts and principles of

physical and environmental geology focusing on earth
materials and processes.

During the course you will learn to identify and classify

rocks and to read and interpret geologic maps and
sections.

It will provide you sufficient information concerning the

geologic environment such that you will be a more
informed citizens and better prepared to make decisions
concerning where you live.
In this Course we will consider:
Earth’s evolution
Earth’s materials
processes active at the Earth’s surface.
processes active at depth in the Earth.

We will talk about materials from atoms to

continents in size……..
…and we will talk about processes over a wide range of
time and space scales.
….summarizing: the aims of the course

Cultural aims
First, to give you the essentials of Geology that any Earth or
Planetary scientist needs in order to place their own work in context.

Then, to provide the background and the understanding of the

interactions and relationships between our Earth, geologic
processes, and society.

Teaching aims
you should be able to pass the final
Examination with an excellent qualification.
Method:

from my side:
 full availability for discussions and explanations
(lectures, homework, lab activities, critical review….);
 I’ll give you all the slides of the Course
 individual meetings: just ask for it !
 group tutorials for some topics: just ask for it !

from your side:

 study “day by day”
 Come to class prepared.
 Study for the exams.
General organization of the course

1) Introduction to Geology lectures (in classroom)

2) Rock identification labs;
3) Geological maps and geological profiles

Regular attendance of the course is recommended

Class meeting time

Monday to Friday: 3 hours per day

48 hours of course

Written exam (2 hours time)

a) open questions on lectures;

b) multiple-choice questions