Earth materials: genesis, composition, evolution, properties

The course unit will provide a basic knowledge of Earth materials, starting with an introduction to mineralogy to understand the constitution and properties of minerals, and their aggregation in rocks. Genesis, evolution, and weathering, considering variables such as pressure, temperature, and geochemical environment, of minerals and rocks will also be presented.

The student is expected to possess the following set of knowledges:
- Basic mineralogy
- Crystal properties and geophysical implications
- Earth's origin and chemical differentiation
- Composition of Earth's major reservoirs
- Rock cycle and rock classification
- Petrological processes in the different geodynamic environments
- Water-rock interaction and water chemistry
- Biogeochemical cycles (C-N)
- Most common tools available for the identifications of minerals and rocks
The student will also acquire communication skills (ability of describing topics related to basic elements of mineralogy, rocks and geochemistry) and learning skills (ability to select and read scientific papers and books to increase the knowledge on the topics introduced during the lectures).