Marine Geology

The course aims to provide: a) advanced knowledge on the geological evolution of the oceans; b) critical knowledge on deep marine geological settings and processes operating in the oceans; c) knowledge of the processes that produce georesources on the ocean floor.

Knowledge and understanding : knowledge of indirect and direct survey methods used in marine geology, specifically in the exploration of marine georesources. Main characteristics of oceanic crust and sediments. Geological evolution of the oceans. Critical reading capacity of scientific papers regarding geodynamic-paleoceanographic reconstructions based on marine geology data. Applying knowledge and understanding: Ability to apply the acquired skills to the study of the geological evolution of the oceans.

Making judgements: Distinction between data to be acquired and their use for modelling. Evaluation of the geological processes that operate at and below the oceanic seafloor, specifically in the formation of georesources.

Communication skills: Ability to describe and illustrate the knowledge gained during the course. Learning skills: Ability to use the acquired knowledge to delineate the geological processes and geodynamics of the oceanic system in the present and in the geological past, in particular as far as marine georesources are concerned. Ability to critically read scientific papers.