Solid Earth Geophysics
A.Y. 2026/2027
Learning objectives
The course unit aims to deepen the knowledge of the physical mechanisms that regulate the dynamics of the deformation processes involving the crust-mantle system at small and large spatial and temporal scales.
Particular attention is devoted to the acquisition of the ability to physically model the deformation for a variety of geodynamic processes, such as intraplate deformation, subduction, extension and mantle convection, through the integration of the balance equations (conservation of mass, momentum and energy) and constitutive equations.
Particular attention is devoted to the acquisition of the ability to physically model the deformation for a variety of geodynamic processes, such as intraplate deformation, subduction, extension and mantle convection, through the integration of the balance equations (conservation of mass, momentum and energy) and constitutive equations.
Expected learning outcomes
· Knowledge of the rheological properties of the Earth's interior;
· Knowledge of the physical laws that govern the processes that take place at different scales in our Planet;
· Knowledge of the principles of diffusion theory and understanding of the main deformation mechanisms in the crust and in the mantle;
· Ability to solve a complex problem using appropriate mathematical tools.
· Knowledge of the physical laws that govern the processes that take place at different scales in our Planet;
· Knowledge of the principles of diffusion theory and understanding of the main deformation mechanisms in the crust and in the mantle;
· Ability to solve a complex problem using appropriate mathematical tools.
Lesson period: Second semester
Assessment methods: Esame
Assessment result: voto verbalizzato in trentesimi
Single course
This course can be attended as a single course.
Course syllabus and organization
Single session
Responsible
Lesson period
Second semester
Course syllabus
Rheology of the Earth, at different time scales.
Constitutive laws: Elastic, Creep, Brittle, Plastic and viscoelastic behaviour.
Mass, energy and momentum conservation equations.
Deformation energy function.
Constitutive laws: Elastic, Creep, Brittle, Plastic and viscoelastic behaviour.
Mass, energy and momentum conservation equations.
Deformation energy function.
Prerequisites for admission
Good knowledge of the basic concepts of continuum mechanics.
Teaching methods
Lessons will be taught using a traditional blackboard (chalk or marker). PowerPoint presentations will be used occasionally.
Teaching Resources
Textbooks recommended by the professor and available in the library of the Department of Earth Sciences A. Desio. Specifically:
1) G. Ranalli, Rheology of the Earth, Deformations and flow processes in geophysics and geodynamics. Any edition.
2) Turcotte and Schubert, Geodynamics. Any edition.
1) G. Ranalli, Rheology of the Earth, Deformations and flow processes in geophysics and geodynamics. Any edition.
2) Turcotte and Schubert, Geodynamics. Any edition.
Assessment methods and Criteria
The exam will be oral or written (by agreement between the teacher and the student) and will aim to verify the student's knowledge of the physical mechanisms that regulate the deformation processes involving the crust-mantle system, at different scales, both spatial and temporal.
GEOS-04/A - Solid Earth Geophysics - University credits: 6
Lessons: 48 hours
Professor:
Marotta Anna Maria
Shifts:
Turno
Professor:
Marotta Anna MariaProfessor(s)
Reception:
every day, by appointment via e-mail
Office - Botticelli 23 - R054