Volcanic and Mantle Processes

Learning Outcomes

The Earth's mantle is the reservoir that provides the raw materials for crustal generation. This reservoir has exchanged material with the crust through geological time, leading to the diversity of compositions we observe in volcanism across our planet. In this module we will look at volcanoes and volcanic products are in the first half of the course. This is centered around a seven-day field course to Tenerife, with lectures and practicals focusing on physical volcanology and field studies examining the processes that generate effusive and explosive volcanics. The field work includes exercises examining pyroclastic deposits and the relationship between caldera development and progressive magmatism. In the second half of the module we will examine the processes of magma generation, through to the processes which generate volcanic features and deposits. The course will make a detailed investigation into the causes of mantle heterogeneity, the way in which melt is generated in the mantle, and the nature and timing of crustal processes on the magma. Using examples of magmatic systems at mid-ocean ridges, volcanic arcs and mantle hotspots we examine how elemental variations and radiogenic isotopes can throw light on structure, circulation and storage within the mantle. To understand how elemental abundances vary in volcanic systems, models are developed in the practical classes that illustrate the likely processes involved.

In Southampton Formal Lectures: will provide the theory underlying the structure, petrology and composition of the Earth's mantle. Outlines of the lectures are provided. Each lecture systematically covers the main concepts. Where relevant, lecturers' own research experience in the appropriate fields is brought into the lecturing sessions. References to applicable book chapters and/or relevant journal articles are provided as essential reading for each lecture. Practical sessions: will exemplify the theory and allow you to develop appropriate practical skills. These skills will range from geochemical and isotopic data analysis and interpretation, to using laboratory techniques and GIS to understand volcanic deposits. Field course: A seven-day field course to Tenerife will also exemplify the theory and develop your investigative and interpretative field skills. An alternative virtual field course is an available option if required. A wide range of support can be provided for those students who have further or specific learning and teaching needs.