DEFINITIONS
 
 

READINGS
 
 

LECTURE
 
 

Introduction to the Course
 
 

Structural Geology is one of the key courses taken by geologists. it is important because:
 
 

(1) You will begin to dosome field work. Geology is grounded in observations which are made in the field. For many this course will decide whether you stay in Geology or go into another filed.
 
 

(2) Structural Geology carries a unique strength different to other fields and at the same time difficult. The most difficult part for many of you will be visualizing geological structures in 3-dimensions and changing in time (4th dimension)

 We have to employ clever ways to reduce 3-dimensional problems into 2-dimensional maps and diagrams (e.g., stereonets, block diagrams, geological maps) Eventually you should have developed a framework in your minds that will allow you to see inthree dimensions.

One of the stumbling blocks in designig the Boeing 777 is that its 4 million parts had to not overlap in 3-dimensional space. It's a problem that's partly overcome by computer programs but still people have to physically lay out the parts to see if they overlap.
 
 

(3) There will be 3 field trips associated withthis class. The first will be held outside this building, the second in Mississippi (The Magnolia State) and the third out in the State of Alabama