Geological Process and Field Geology

The course aims to provide students with the theoretical and practical tools to recognize, analyze, and interpret the main geological processes responsible for the geological-structural framework of a specific area. Starting from the analysis of bibliographic documentation (geological maps, scientific articles, and other sources), students will be guided in developing a general geological framework of the area, in identifying the main sedimentary, paleontological, and structural processes responsible for the geological setting of the area, in discussing the paleogeographic and tectonic implications, and finally in addressing unresolved or debated geological issues.

After an initial phase of classroom and field training conducted by the instructors, the student will be required to independently plan and carry out a geological survey lasting about ten days, at a scale of 1:10,000. This activity will be aimed at collecting data useful for the investigation and resolution of the identified geological problem.

At the end of the survey campaign, the student must prepare a geological map with an explanatory legend and a technical-scientific report in which the collected data and their implications for the identified geological processes will be critically discussed.

At the end of the course, the student will be able to:

· Carry out bibliographic research aimed at defining the geological context of an area;

· Identify and formulate a geological problem based on the analysis of scientific literature;

· Retrieve and manage digital data (geological maps, topographic maps, satellite images) useful for organizing fieldwork;

· Plan and develop a geological project in a GIS environment;

· Independently organize a geological survey campaign in a mountainous environment;

· Carry out an independent geological survey at a 1:10,000 scale;

· Produce a geological map with a geological-stratigraphic legend;

· Identify the main sedimentary, paleontological, and structural processes responsible for the geological setting of the area and assess their paleogeographic and tectonic implications;

· Produce a geological report based on the critical interpretation of the collected data and the evaluation of the main geological processes involved.