The goal of this course in to introduce the students to the basics of experimental modelling of tectonic processes. Experimental modelling is based on the use on analogue materials which can respect similarity principles in reproducing natural processes at smaller/faster spatial/temporal scales. The Laboratory of Experimental Tectonics was the first one developed in Italy, inspired by the long-term international tradition of analogue modelling. In this class, we will use continuum mechanics, which describes the response of a material to an imposed force, to study and understand cause-effect relationships between geometry, kinematics and dynamics of the solid earth. Introductory lectures provide the theoretical background on physical and rheology properties of analogue materials, scaling and quantification of natural results. The second phase of the course proposes hands on exercises during which the students will learn how to address scientific questions through building experimental models. Each argument will be presented offering an initial basic theoretical background which will be subsequently implemented by the widest range of updated interpretations and natural examples. Students will be expected to actively participate to the class activities (e.g. reading scientific papers, homework assignments, set-up of analogue models, in-class presentations).
scheda docente
materiale didattico
Purpose, potential and limitations of physical modelling of tectonic processes. Relationships among natural observations, hypotheses, models and interpretations. Distinction among geometry, kinematics and dynamics.
Similarity principles and dimensional analysis. Scaling ratios for length, time, velocity, density, stress and force. Boundary conditions and selection of experimental parameters.
Physical properties and rheological behaviour of analogue materials. Criteria for selecting, characterising and controlling the materials used in the models.
Design of the experimental apparatus, operating protocols, documentation of deformation stages, acquisition of images and data, measurements, and presentation of results. Comparison among experimental results, conceptual models and natural examples.
LABORATORY ACTIVITIES AND PROJECT
Practical activities guide students through a series of analogue models addressing: 1) mountain-belt formation; 2) the subduction process; and 3) relationships between tectonic and geomorphological processes. For each model, students define the scientific question, select the materials and scaling ratios, construct the model, document its evolution, and interpret the results quantitatively. In particular, students analyse the geometry and kinematic evolution of the resulting structures, discuss their dynamic significance, and assess limitations and sources of error.
The work is complemented by critical reading of scientific papers, exercises, literature searches, discussions and in-class presentations.
• Schubert, G., Turcotte, D. L. and Olson, P. (2001), Mantle Dynamics: Mantle Convection in the Earth and Planets, Cambridge University Press.
• Davies, G. F. (1999), Dynamic Earth: Plates, Plumes and Mantle Convection, Cambridge University Press.
• Schubert, G. (ed.) (2007), Treatise on Geophysics, vols. 1, 3, 6, 7 and 9, Elsevier.
Scientific papers, laboratory protocols and supplementary learning materials are provided by the lecturer in relation to the experiments conducted.
Programma
THEORETICAL ACTIVITIESPurpose, potential and limitations of physical modelling of tectonic processes. Relationships among natural observations, hypotheses, models and interpretations. Distinction among geometry, kinematics and dynamics.
Similarity principles and dimensional analysis. Scaling ratios for length, time, velocity, density, stress and force. Boundary conditions and selection of experimental parameters.
Physical properties and rheological behaviour of analogue materials. Criteria for selecting, characterising and controlling the materials used in the models.
Design of the experimental apparatus, operating protocols, documentation of deformation stages, acquisition of images and data, measurements, and presentation of results. Comparison among experimental results, conceptual models and natural examples.
LABORATORY ACTIVITIES AND PROJECT
Practical activities guide students through a series of analogue models addressing: 1) mountain-belt formation; 2) the subduction process; and 3) relationships between tectonic and geomorphological processes. For each model, students define the scientific question, select the materials and scaling ratios, construct the model, document its evolution, and interpret the results quantitatively. In particular, students analyse the geometry and kinematic evolution of the resulting structures, discuss their dynamic significance, and assess limitations and sources of error.
The work is complemented by critical reading of scientific papers, exercises, literature searches, discussions and in-class presentations.
Testi Adottati
• Turcotte, D. L. and Schubert, G. (2002), Geodynamics, 2nd ed., John Wiley & Sons.• Schubert, G., Turcotte, D. L. and Olson, P. (2001), Mantle Dynamics: Mantle Convection in the Earth and Planets, Cambridge University Press.
• Davies, G. F. (1999), Dynamic Earth: Plates, Plumes and Mantle Convection, Cambridge University Press.
• Schubert, G. (ed.) (2007), Treatise on Geophysics, vols. 1, 3, 6, 7 and 9, Elsevier.
Scientific papers, laboratory protocols and supplementary learning materials are provided by the lecturer in relation to the experiments conducted.
Modalità Erogazione
The course can be provided in English, if requested. Part of the course is in the Laboratory of Experimental Tectonics. Frontal teaching, experimental activity, practicals both in class and at home, reading of scientific papers, seminars In case of COVID-19 emergency, it will be followed all the rules for safe teaching and evaluation. In particular, this course will be provided in a virtual mode.Modalità Frequenza
Attendance is mandatory, particularly for laboratory activities. Minimum attendance requirements, attendance monitoring procedures, and any provisions for specific categories of students are governed by the Degree Programme Regulations.Modalità Valutazione
Assessment comprises an experimental project with presentation and discussion, an oral examination on the theoretical topics, and evaluation of documented participation in the learning activities. EXPERIMENTAL PROJECT AND DISCUSSION – 60% Students present and discuss one of the models completed during the course. The assessment evaluates their ability to formulate the question, apply similarity criteria, justify the choice of materials and boundary conditions, document the procedure, interpret the results, and assess the model's limitations and transferability to natural cases. The following criteria are assessed: consistency between the question and the experimental design; methodological accuracy; quality of documentation and analysis; critical interpretation; and clarity and appropriateness of the presentation and discussion. ORAL EXAMINATION – 30% The oral examination covers the theoretical syllabus and begins with discussion of principles, diagrams, experimental results or case studies. It assesses mastery of the concepts, the ability to connect theory and models, and correct use of disciplinary terminology. PARTICIPATION IN LEARNING ACTIVITIES – 10% Participation is assessed on the basis of each student's effective contribution to practical work, the reading and discussion of papers, group activities, and in-class reporting and discussion. DETERMINATION OF THE FINAL GRADE The final grade, expressed on a scale of thirty, is the weighted sum of the three components. Taken together, the assessments evaluate theoretical knowledge, the ability to apply it to model design and interpretation, independent judgement, and the communication skills stated in the expected learning outcomes.