Geos-427, 527 Orogenic Systems, Spring 2011 semester, 3 cr
Instructors: Prof. George Zandt & Guest Lecturers
“The objectives of this course are to examine the geological, geophysical, and geochemical aspects of Orogenic Systems and their tectonic evolution from the Precambrian to the Present using selected examples from various parts of the planet.” –Peter Coney, originator of this course
Prerequisites:
427 – At least one advanced undergraduate course in geology, geochemistry, or geophysics.
527 – At least one graduate course in geology, geochemistry, or geophysics.
Required Textbook: None, course is based on reading the scientific literature.
Grades: 427 – 10% HWs, 30% mid-term exam, 60% written term project
527 – 10% HWs, 30% mid-term exam, 50% written term project, 10% oral presentation of term project (Note: HWs and mid-term exam contains additional content for 527 students).
Field Trip: to be determined
CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION
An Overview of Orogenic Systems
Spheres of Influence: asthenosphere, lithosphere, & tectospheres
SUBDUCTION PROCESSES
Subduction Zones: A key to understanding orogeny
Subduction: What controls the backarc stress field?
Flat Subduction
TOOLS & TECHNIQUES
Seismology and Seismic Imaging
Petrology/Geochemistry of Continental Crust
Thermochronology of Exhumation and Uplift
Fold and Thrust Belts Build Mountains
Modeling Mountain Building
SURVEY OF GLOBAL OROGENS
Consolidation and Rise of the Andean Cordillera
Rise and Fall of the North American Cordillera
In Between: The complex Caribbean
Into the Tethyan Domain: The Mediterranean & Anatolia
The Hit: The classic Alps
The Grand Slam: Himalayas and the Indo-Asian Collision
SYNTHESIS
Lithospheric-scale Andean Tectonics: A double vergent orogen?
The Laramide Orogeny: Collision with an oceanic plateau?
Orogenic Collapse: The Basin and Range vs Colorado Plateau
The Tibetan Plateau: To Flow or Not
Cordilleran Cycles?