Microscopy

Undergraduate course

Course description

Objectives and Content

This is a practical course in recognition of rock-forming minerals in magmatic, metamorphic and sedimentary rocks. The subject starts with theory of optical microscopy in plane polarized light. The second part of the course is devoted to the training in identification of the most common silicate and other rock forming minerals. Final part of the course aims at interpretation of textural relationships among minerals in magmatic, metamorphic and sedimentary rocks. One lecture is also devoted to the technique of electron microscopy.

Learning Outcomes

Successful attendance will result in:
  • knowledge of methods necessary fo identification of rock-forming minerals in thin sections
  • knowledge of ways how to interpret some of the most common textures in magmatic, metamorphic and sedimentary rocks.

Semester of Instruction

The course will not be given spring 2024.
Required Previous Knowledge
Principles of mineralogy and petrography.
Forms of Assessment
Grading of student portfolio. It is only possible to register for examination and submit report in semesters of instruction. 
Grading Scale
The grading scale used is A to F. Grade A is the highest passing grade in the grading scale, grade F is a fail.