OVERVIEW

Volcanology is the study of volcanic rocks, magmas and chemico-physical processes that govern volcanic processes and eruptions. It deals also with volcanic risk assessment. 

AIMS AND CONTENT

LEARNING OUTCOMES

The aim of this course is to highlight the fundamental mechanisms of volcanic processes, from primordial accretion and thermal evolution of planetary bodies to relations between volcanism and tectonics. Special attention will be devoted to the role of chemico-physical and thermodynamic properties of magmas and volatiles in determining eruptive processes and to the use of phase diagrams and geochemical data in modelling solid-melt-fluid equilibria. A final part will be dedicated to Italian volcanoes (Etna, Aeolian Islands, Vesuvius, Phlegrean Fields, Roman Comagmatic Province and Vulture), with a 3-days field trip planned every year.

PREREQUISITES

Basic knowledge of geochemistry, geology, mineralogy and petrology is required.

TEACHING METHODS

Lectures and fieldtrip activities.

Students are recommended to follow updates about COVID-19 on the specific AULA WEB page.

RECOMMENDED READING/BIBLIOGRAPHY

Dispense di Vulcanologia (download from the Aula WEB page)

Ottonello G., (1991) Principi di Geochimica. Zanichelli, Bologna, 708pp. 

Ottonello G., (1997) Principles of Geochemistry. Columbia University Press, New York-Chicester-West Sussex, 894 pp.

TEACHERS AND EXAM BOARD

Exam Board

DONATO BELMONTE (President)

MARINO VETUSCHI ZUCCOLINI

ROBERTO CABELLA (President Substitute)

CRISTINA CARBONE (Substitute)

LESSONS

Class schedule

VOLCANOLOGY

EXAMS

EXAM DESCRIPTION

Oral exam (see assessment method).

ASSESSMENT METHODS

The exam will be performed via a oral presentation made by the students on a specific topic of the course.

Students are recommended to follow updates about COVID-19 on the specific AULA WEB page.