Geoscience: Deformation of the crust

Plate tectonics drives rock deformation as continents collide or split into two. On completion of this unit you will understand the processes of rock deformation, and be able to describe, classify and interpret the significance of both large- and small-scale structural features in deformed rock sequences, as well as understand basic concepts of deformation processes in rocks. This unit focuses on the skills required to observe, identify and measure structural elements in the field, analyse three-dimensional structure from geological maps, and the application of geometric, kinematic and dynamic analysis of rock deformation. It then uses all the material learned to link with global-scale tectonics and geodynamics.