Geology of the Mediterranean Area

Knowledge of geological processes of the Mediterranean area is fundamental for the understanding of the interactions between geosphere and biosphere. Topics of the Course are: geology and geodynamics of the main geological settings (e.g., active and passive margins) recognizable in the Mediterranea area; basic concepts of extensive, convergent and transcurrent tectonics; geological history and palaeogeography of the Mediterranean area; main tectonic units occurring in the Mediterranea sea and onland; description of the main techniques of survey in marine geology; seafloor bathymetry and basic concepts of coastal morphology; interactions between bathymetry, seafloor morphology and biosphere distribution in relation to the environmental protection and anthropic action. The Course is implemented with a one-day trip to the Alps or Apennines (to be defined each year) and to a guided tour to the "ISMAR" (Institute of Marine Sciences) of the Bologna Research Council.