Volcanology
A.Y. 2020/2021
Learning objectives
The main aim of the course is to learn the principles of physical volcanology that control and drive eruptive and intereruptive phenomena. In addition we discuss the main criteria for reconstructing the evolution of a volcanic area and for assessing its hazard
Expected learning outcomes
Recognition of the main volcanic deposits, their study and volcanic processes. Role of tectonics in the evolution of volcanoes. Field work in volcanic areas
Lesson period: Second semester
Assessment methods: Esame
Assessment result: voto verbalizzato in trentesimi
Course syllabus and organization
Single session
Responsible
Lesson period
Second semester
Teaching methods
The lessons will be held on the Microsoft Teams platform and can be followed both synchronously based on the timetable of the first semester and asynchronously as they will be recorded and uploaded on that same platform.
Course syllabus and Teaching Resources
The contents and reference material will not be changed.
Assessment methods and Criteria
The final exam will be an oral test through the Microsoft Teams platform or, if so permitted by regulation, in person as an oral interview.
The examination, in particular, will be aimed at:
- ascertaining the achievement of the objectives in terms of knowledge and comprehension;
- verifying the student's autonomy of judgment also through the analysis of cases discussed during the course;
- ascertaining the mastery of the specific language concerning volcanology and the ability to present the topics in a clear and orderly manner.
The lessons will be held on the Microsoft Teams platform and can be followed both synchronously based on the timetable of the first semester and asynchronously as they will be recorded and uploaded on that same platform.
Course syllabus and Teaching Resources
The contents and reference material will not be changed.
Assessment methods and Criteria
The final exam will be an oral test through the Microsoft Teams platform or, if so permitted by regulation, in person as an oral interview.
The examination, in particular, will be aimed at:
- ascertaining the achievement of the objectives in terms of knowledge and comprehension;
- verifying the student's autonomy of judgment also through the analysis of cases discussed during the course;
- ascertaining the mastery of the specific language concerning volcanology and the ability to present the topics in a clear and orderly manner.
Course syllabus
Plate tectonics and volcanism. Genesis and composition of magmas: decompression melting and the
mantle adiabat; melting by compositional variation; by temperature increase. Physico-chemical properties of magmas and principles of rheology. Volatile species in magmas. Magma chambers. Plumbing systems and the evolution of magmas at shallow depth. Eruptions: timescales, eruption rates, classification schemes. Magnitudo and energy release. Magmatic fragmentation. Effusive eruptions and the deposits of effusive volcanism: lavas and lava flows, lava fountains, domes, subglacial and subaqueous lavas, seamounts. Flood basalts. Strombolian eruptions and an introduction to their products. Explosive volcanism and an introduction to their products: fall deposits, pyroclastic flows, surges. Phreatic and phreatomagmatic eruptions. Mapping of volcanic areas. Volcanic hazard. Volcanic and tectonic structures: their relations and influences on the volcanic evolution
mantle adiabat; melting by compositional variation; by temperature increase. Physico-chemical properties of magmas and principles of rheology. Volatile species in magmas. Magma chambers. Plumbing systems and the evolution of magmas at shallow depth. Eruptions: timescales, eruption rates, classification schemes. Magnitudo and energy release. Magmatic fragmentation. Effusive eruptions and the deposits of effusive volcanism: lavas and lava flows, lava fountains, domes, subglacial and subaqueous lavas, seamounts. Flood basalts. Strombolian eruptions and an introduction to their products. Explosive volcanism and an introduction to their products: fall deposits, pyroclastic flows, surges. Phreatic and phreatomagmatic eruptions. Mapping of volcanic areas. Volcanic hazard. Volcanic and tectonic structures: their relations and influences on the volcanic evolution
Prerequisites for admission
No prerequisites
Teaching methods
Lectures with schemes, diagrams, numerous images and presentation of case studies, some exercises, mandatory multi-day field work in the period between the second half of June and the end of July.
Teaching Resources
K. Németh, & U. Martin, Practical Volcanology (2007).
Scientific papers and PDF presentations of the lectures on the Ariel website
Scientific papers and PDF presentations of the lectures on the Ariel website
Assessment methods and Criteria
The exam consists in an oral interview about the activity in the field and the topic discussed in the classroom.
GEO/08 - GEOCHEMISTRY AND VOLCANOLOGY - University credits: 6
Field activity: 12 hours
Lessons: 40 hours
Lessons: 40 hours
Professor:
Forni Francesca
Educational website(s)
Professor(s)
Reception:
to be scheduled via email