Course overview
- Study period
- Semester 2, 2024 (22/07/2024 - 18/11/2024)
- Study level
- Undergraduate
- Location
- St Lucia
- Attendance mode
- In Person
- Units
- 2
- Administrative campus
- St Lucia
- Coordinating unit
- The Environment School
Geological processes leading to ore genesis; geological controls & tectonic settings of ore deposits. Ore petrography. Exploration methods. Field trip, additional fee payable.
This course focuses on the study of processes responsible for the formation of ore deposits and the important characteristic features of mineralized environments, including geologic and tectonic setting, structural controls, alteration patterns, and geochemistry of host rocks and mineralizing solutions. It introduces methods for exploring for mineralsﾠ and it applies the knowledge derived from ore deposit models to explore for new resources.
About two thirds of each class involve ﾠpractical activities, when students investigate and describeﾠ typical samples of different types of oreﾠ and associated host rocks (macroscopic and petrographic description).ﾠ Students are also taught how to estimate grades, distinguish between mineralized and barren rock, and use the chemical compositions of host rocks and alteration products to estimate the composition and possibly temperatures of mineralizing solutions.
There is aﾠ field trip associated with this course (SEPT 6-SEPT 8, 2024). Final field trip fee is still being defined (expected to be approx $80-100) and details will be confirmed during the initial ﾠweeks of class. Attendance on the field trip is highly recommended.
Course requirements
Assumed background
Basic knowledge of introductory level physical geology, mineralogy, petrology, sedimentology, and structural geology; basic to intermediate knowledge of chemistry; basic skills in computer use (Word, Excel, Adobe Illustrator or other graphics software).
Prerequisites
You'll need to complete the following courses before enrolling in this one:
ERTH2004 and ERTH2006 (ERTH2005 prior to 2015)
Incompatible
You can't enrol in this course if you've already completed the following:
ERTH7111
Course contact
Course staff
Lecturer
Tutor
Mr Stephen Munro
Timetable
The timetable for this course is available on the UQ Public Timetable.
Additional timetable information
Students are required to attend 2 x 3-hour contact sessions each week and one three-day field trip ﾠSEPT 6-SEPT 8, 2024). Contact sessions will be made up of both lecture and practical exercises.
There is a significant amount of literature to be studied in this course. Students will require at least four hours/week to read the recommended literature.
Students without a background in Mineralogy and Igneous Petrology will require significant independent extra work to catch up with the contents of this course.
Students are expected to work in their own time to complete the group exercise (Prospect Evaluation Report - Group Assessment)ﾠ after the field trip.
Ensure you check mySI-net regularly for timetable updates.
Aims and outcomes
The aims of the course are:
- to provide students with an in-depth understanding of the geology of ore deposits;
- to train students to use scientific concepts and analysis to understand ore genesis;
- to train students on methods and practices of mineral exploration;
- to develop presentation and communication skills.
Learning outcomes
After successfully completing this course you should be able to:
LO1.
describe the global distribution of ore deposits, the economic, environmental, and political factors affecting their exploitation;
LO2.
have a comprehensive and well-founded knowledge of the geology of ore deposits, and the petrological, structural, geochemical, and tectonic controls on ore genesis;
LO3.
apply basic geological, chemical, physical, and mathematical tools to study the genesis of ore deposits;
LO4.
identify rocks and minerals and assess the mineralization potential of an area containing those rocks and minerals;
LO5.
identify mineral alteration assemblages associated with most important ore deposit type;
LO6.
carry out a prospect evaluation and be aware of professional standards (JORC) on reporting the results of mineral resource exploration and evaluation;
LO7.
apply the most appropriate techniques used in the exploration for ore deposits and report the findings in a well-presented and technically competent way;
LO8.
have a general understanding of important Australian ore deposits and their mineralization styles.
Assessment
Assessment summary
| Category | Assessment task | Weight | Due date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Paper/ Report/ Annotation, Examination | In Semester Exam Theory (10%) and Practical (15%) | 25% In Semester Exam Theory (10%) and Practical (15%) |
5/09/2024 2:00 pm
One-hour theory exam paper to be finished during the Sept 5th class session. Practical exam to be completed using Surface Pro or Ipad tablets, saved on a reduced PDF file, and e-mailed to course coordinator at the end of the exam (5:00 pm on 5/09/2024). |
| Paper/ Report/ Annotation | Prospect Evaluation Report (Group Work) | 25% of course mark |
28/10/2024 4:00 pm
Penalty for late submission applies. |
| Examination | Final Theory Exam | 40% of course mark |
End of Semester Exam Period 2/11/2024 - 16/11/2024 |
| Paper/ Report/ Annotation | Weekly Laboratory Reports | 10% of course mark |
Assessment details
In Semester Exam Theory (10%) and Practical (15%)
- Mode
- Written
- Category
- Paper/ Report/ Annotation, Examination
- Weight
- 25% In Semester Exam Theory (10%) and Practical (15%)
- Due date
5/09/2024 2:00 pm
One-hour theory exam paper to be finished during the Sept 5th class session. Practical exam to be completed using Surface Pro or Ipad tablets, saved on a reduced PDF file, and e-mailed to course coordinator at the end of the exam (5:00 pm on 5/09/2024).
Task description
Students will be assessed on their understanding of the material covered until the mid-semester break, including their knowledge of minerals, rocks, basic chemical equations related to mineralization systems, the location of ore deposits, their size, structural and igneous characteristics, and the processes controlling mineralization. Students will be tested on the identification of rocks and minerals in hand-specimen and in petrographic thin sections.
Exam details
| Planning time | no planning time minutes |
|---|---|
| Duration | 60 minutes |
| Calculator options | Any calculator permitted |
| Open/closed book | Closed Book examination - no written materials permitted |
| Materials | Hand lenses, microscopes, dilute HCl, ceramic tiles, pocket knife, and other items useful for identifying rocks and minerals will be permitted during the practical exam. |
| Exam platform | Paper based |
| Invigilation | Invigilated in person |
Submission guidelines
Students will submit the theory exam paper directly to the course coordinator.
Students will submit the practical exam by e-mailing a reduce PDF file to the course coordinator.
Deferral or extension
You may be able to defer this exam.
Deferral will require a valid medical certificate in line with UQ deferred exam policy/guidelines.
Late submission
A penalty of 10% of the maximum possible mark will be deducted per 24 hours from time submission is due for up to 7 days. After 7 days, you will receive a mark of 0.
Prospect Evaluation Report (Group Work)
- Mode
- Written
- Category
- Paper/ Report/ Annotation
- Weight
- 25% of course mark
- Due date
28/10/2024 4:00 pm
Penalty for late submission applies.
Task description
Practical Group Assignment (25% of course - 20% for content and 5% for peer assessment):
The practical group assignment will consist of a 20-30 page report assessing the mineralization and prospectivity potential of an exploration target. During the field trip, groups of three or four students will map the area and collect evidence for a report on the exploration potential of the area. Samples collected during the field trip will be sectioned and each group will be responsible for investigating samples in thin sections. Minerals will be identified in reflected and transmitted light, and a basic paragenesis will be documented and illustrated through video capture of appropriate images. This information will be used to produce an evaluation of the mineralization potential of the area, including a possible mineralization model for the deposit under investigation. Students are expected to work in their own time to complete the group exercise. The ability to work effectively in groups is crucial for the successful completion of this exercise.
Each group will be required to produce a geological map of the prospect visited during the Field Trip, using an airphoto as a base. You must figure out the scale before starting the mapping exercise. You must also figure out magnetic north and true north and plot an arrow on your map. Each map is to have the names of the authors on it. Each group must also submit one labeled sample of each major rock and ore type. The specimens are not to be more than 15 cm across nor less than 10 cm. No more than 10 samples per group.
In addition, each individual will be required to submit:
• a cross-section of the prospect drawn on one of the grid lines at a scale of 1:500
• a brief (1 page) description of geological structure (dip of strata, cleavage, faults, joints, etc.).
• a description of the type of mineralization and its relationship to the host rocks.
Once back in Brisbane, we will examine polished thin sections of samples from the prospect area studied. Each group will describe the thin sections, interpret the geological and geophysical (if available) data, and write a report evaluating the economic viability of the prospect and suggesting any additional work that should be done in the area.
Submission guidelines
Electronic file (full report in PDF) to be uploaded into Turnitin on Blackboard.
Deferral or extension
You may be able to apply for an extension.
The maximum extension allowed is 28 days. Extensions are given in multiples of 24 hours.
Late submission
A penalty of 10% of the maximum possible mark will be deducted per 24 hours from time submission is due for up to 7 days. After 7 days, you will receive a mark of 0.
Final Theory Exam
- Mode
- Written
- Category
- Examination
- Weight
- 40% of course mark
- Due date
End of Semester Exam Period
2/11/2024 - 16/11/2024
Task description
On campus in person invigilated exam held during the central exam period. COVID Contingency: In the event of a lockdown or COVID-19 restrictions, this exam will be held online via ProctorU.
Students will be assessed on their understanding of the material covered throughout the semester, including their knowledge of minerals, rocks, basic chemical equations related to mineralization systems, the location of ore deposits, their size, structural and igneous characteristics, and the processes controlling mineralization.
There is an exam hurdle. Students must achieve at least 50% on the final exam as well as a total mark of 50% or higher in the overall course in order to pass.
Exam details
| Planning time | 10 minutes |
|---|---|
| Duration | 120 minutes |
| Calculator options | Any calculator permitted |
| Open/closed book | Closed Book examination - specified written materials permitted |
| Materials | One A4 sheet of handwritten or typed notes, single sided, is permitted |
| Exam platform | Paper based |
| Invigilation | Invigilated in person |
Submission guidelines
Deferral or extension
You may be able to defer this exam.
Deferral will require a medical certificate stating that the student was not physically fit to sit the exam.
Weekly Laboratory Reports
- Mode
- Written
- Category
- Paper/ Report/ Annotation
- Weight
- 10% of course mark
Task description
Practical exercises due at the beginning of the following practices. These are individual reports.
Submission guidelines
A hard copy of the complete practical hand out should be submitted to the lecturer at the start of the following practical.
Deferral or extension
You may be able to apply for an extension.
The maximum extension allowed is 28 days. Extensions are given in multiples of 24 hours.
Late submission
A penalty of 10% of the maximum possible mark will be deducted per 24 hours from time submission is due for up to 7 days. After 7 days, you will receive a mark of 0.
Course grading
Full criteria for each grade is available in the Assessment Procedure.
| Grade | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 (Low Fail) |
Absence of evidence of achievement of course learning outcomes. Course grade description: The minimum percentage required for this grade is: 0% Grade of 1: the student demonstrates very limited understanding of the theory of the topics listed in the course outline and of the basic concepts in the course material. This includes attempts at answering some questions but demonstrating very limited understanding of the key concepts. |
| 2 (Fail) |
Minimal evidence of achievement of course learning outcomes. Course grade description: The minimum percentage required for this grade is: 30% Grade of 2: the student demonstrates limited understanding of the theory of the topics listed in the course outline and demonstrates limited knowledge of the techniques used to solve problems. This includes attempts at expressing their deductions and explanations and attempts to answer a few questions accurately. |
| 3 (Marginal Fail) |
Demonstrated evidence of developing achievement of course learning outcomes Course grade description: The minimum percentage required for this grade is: 45% Grade of 3: the student demonstrates a limited understanding of the theory of the topics listed in the course outline and demonstrates some knowledge of the techniques used to solve problems. A grade of 3 or below is a FAIL. |
| 4 (Pass) |
Demonstrated evidence of functional achievement of course learning outcomes. Course grade description: The minimum percentage required for this grade is: 50% Grade of 4: the student demonstrates an understanding of the theory of the topics listed in the course outline and demonstrates a knowledge of the techniques used to solve problems. There is a course hurdle: Students must achieve at least 45% on the final exam as well as a total mark of 50% or higher in the overall course in order to pass. |
| 5 (Credit) |
Demonstrated evidence of proficient achievement of course learning outcomes. Course grade description: The minimum percentage required for this grade is: 65% Grade of 5: the student demonstrates a good understanding of the theory of the topics listed in the course outline and can apply the techniques to solve problems. There is a course hurdle: Students must achieve at least 45% on the final exam as well as a total mark of 50% or higher in the overall course in order to pass. |
| 6 (Distinction) |
Demonstrated evidence of advanced achievement of course learning outcomes. Course grade description: The minimum percentage required for this grade is: 75% Grade of 6: the student demonstrates a comprehensive understanding of the theory of the topics listed in the course outline and is proficient in applying the techniques to solve both theoretical and practical problems. There is a course hurdle: Students must achieve at least 45% on the final exam as well as a total mark of 50% or higher in the overall course in order to pass. |
| 7 (High Distinction) |
Demonstrated evidence of exceptional achievement of course learning outcomes. Course grade description: The minimum percentage required for this grade is: 85% Grade of 7: the student demonstrates an excellent understanding of the theory of the topics listed in the course outline and is highly proficient in applying the techniques to solve both theoretical and practical problems. There is a course hurdle: Students must achieve at least 45% on the final exam as well as a total mark of 50% or higher in the overall course in order to pass. |
Additional course grading information
There is a course hurdle: Students must achieve at least 45% on the final exam as well as a total mark of 50% or higher in the overall course in order to pass.
Supplementary assessment
Supplementary assessment is available for this course.
Should you fail a course with a grade of 3, you may be eligible for supplementary assessment. Refer to my.UQ for information on supplementary assessment and how to apply.
Supplementary assessment provides an additional opportunity to demonstrate you have achieved all the required learning outcomes for a course.
If you apply and are granted supplementary assessment, the type of supplementary assessment set will consider which learning outcome(s) have not been met.
Supplementary assessment can take any form (such as a written report, oral presentation, examination or other appropriate assessment) and may test specific learning outcomes tailored to the individual student, or all learning outcomes.
To receive a passing grade of 3S4, you must obtain a mark of 50% or more on the supplementary assessment.
Additional assessment information
Applications for Extensions
Information on applying for an extension can be found here - my.UQ Applying for an extension
Extension applications must be received by the assessment due date and time.
If you are unable to provide documentation to support your application by the due date and time you must still submit your application on time and attach a Word document outlining why you cannot provide the documentation and upload the documentation to the portal within 24 hours.
Please note: While your extension request is being considered, you should work towards completing and submitting your assessment as soon as possible.
If you have been ill or unable to attend class for more than 4 weeks in a semester, we advise you to carefully consider whether you are capable of successfully completing your courses. You might need to consider applying for removal of course. We strongly recommend you seek advice from the Faculty that administers your program.
Extensions with Student Access Plans (SAP)
For extensions up to 7 days, your SAP is all that is required as documentation to support your application. However, extension requests longer than 7 days (for any one assessment item) will require the submission of additional supporting documentation e.g., a medical certificate. A maximum of two applications may be submitted for any one assessment item, unless exceptional circumstances can be demonstrated. All extension requests must be received by the assessment due date and time.
The assessment tasks in this course evaluate students’ abilities, skills and knowledge without the aid of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Students are advised that the use of AI technologies to develop responses is strictly prohibited and may constitute misconduct under the Student Code of Conduct.
Practical examination will be assessed based on the correct identification of rocks, minerals, and textures of samples provided to the students.
Academic Integrity:
All students must complete the Academic Integrity Tutorial: https://www.uq.edu.au/integrity/
Turnitin
By submitting work through Turnitin you are deemed to have accepted the following declaration “I certify that this assignment is my own work and has not been submitted, either previously or concurrently, in whole or in part, to this University or any other educational institution, for marking or assessment”.
Students can download the digital receipt in the Assignment inbox to confirm successful submission. A valid Turnitin receipt will be the only evidence accepted if assessments are missing. Without evidence, the assessment will receive 10% per day of the available marks late penalty deduction, and after seven days, will receive zero marks.
In the case of a Blackboard outage, please contact the Course Coordinator as soon as possible to confirm the outage with ITS.
Learning resources
You'll need the following resources to successfully complete the course. We've indicated below if you need a personal copy of the reading materials or your own item.
Library resources
Library resources are available on the UQ Library website.
Other course materials
Recommended
| Item | Description | Further Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| Introduction to Ore-Forming Processes, 2nd Edition |
Additional learning resources information
The Joint Ore Reserves Committee:
London Metal Exchange:
Geoscience Australia:
Society of Economic Geologists:
Society of Geology Applied to Mineral Deposits:
ﾠ
Additional costs
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
Field trip fees |
Students will pay for transport, meals and accommodation during field trip. |
Learning activities
The learning activities for this course are outlined below. Learn more about the learning outcomes that apply to this course.
Filter activity type by
Please select
| Learning period | Activity type | Topic |
|---|---|---|
Week 1 (22 Jul - 28 Jul) |
Problem-based learning |
General Aspects of Mineral Resources Introduction and coursework requirements. Mineral economics. What is an ore deposit? Classification of ore deposits. Assess future mineral needs, production areas, and exploration strategies. |
Problem-based learning |
Petrology and Microscopy Students will review petrological aspects of rock formation and the macroscopic and microscopic description of rocks and learn how to use transmitted and reflected-light microscopes. |
|
Week 2 (29 Jul - 04 Aug) |
Problem-based learning |
All About Diamonds: kimberlites and lamproites Learn to recognise diamonds, diamond-bearing rocks, and identify mineral assemblages associated with diamonds. |
Problem-based learning |
More on strange magmas: carbonatites Investigation of hand specimens and thin sections of Nb-, P-, and REE-rich carbonatites. |
|
Week 3 (05 Aug - 11 Aug) |
Problem-based learning |
Orthomagmatic Ore Deposits 1: melts & crystals Cr, PGE, Ni, Cu, Au Petrology and mineralogy of layered mafic intrusions: the Bushveld Complex. |
Problem-based learning |
Orthomagmatic Ore Deposits 2: melts & crystals PGE, Ti, Fe, U, Th Petrographic study of sulphide and oxide assemblages in the Bushveld Complex. Evaluating potential sources and uses of PGEs, Fe, Ti, and V. |
|
Week 4 (12 Aug - 18 Aug) |
Problem-based learning |
Orthomagmatic Ore Deposits 3: liquid immiscibility and Kambalda-type ore systems (komatiites) Ni-Co-Cu-PGE Investigate important sources of Ni, Co, Cu, and S in ultramafic magmas. Sulphur isotopes. |
Problem-based learning |
Orthomagmatic Ore Deposits 4: Evolved magmas and pegmatites - U, Th, REE, Li, Sc, Be, B, etc. Hand sample recognition and petrological assessment of mineralization processes in granitic pegmatites. |
|
Week 5 (19 Aug - 25 Aug) |
Problem-based learning |
Porphyry-style Mineralization Cu-Au-Mo-W Assemblages and textures in Panguna. |
Problem-based learning |
Epithermal Systems: Au-Ag (Bi-As-Cu-Pb-Zn) Assemblages and textures in Mt Leyshon, Pajingo, and Cracow. |
|
Week 6 (26 Aug - 01 Sep) |
Problem-based learning |
FIELD MAPPING EXERCISE Map a mineralised system in the field, assess the complexity of the mineralization system, defining prospective areas in the field, produce a hypothetical cross section through the mineralised area. Learn how and where to drill. Learn how to collect appropriate samples for further characterisation. |
Week 7 (02 Sep - 08 Sep) |
Problem-based learning |
Skarns - Fe, Cu, Zn, Pb, Au, Bi, W, Mo Investigate the evolution of a Fe-Cu-Au-Bi scares. Biggenden, Qld, as an example. |
Week 8 (09 Sep - 15 Sep) |
Problem-based learning |
SEDEX & SEDIMENT HOSTED MASSIVE SULPHIDE - Cu-Pb-Zn-Ag-Au-Co Evaluate mineralization styles at Mount Isa and Century Zinc. |
Week 9 (16 Sep - 22 Sep) |
Problem-based learning |
Banded Iron-Formation Learn to recognise and describe various banded iron-formation facies. Distinguish mineralised from barren banded iron-formations. Evaluate the possible roles and implications of banded iron-formation enrichment by metamorphism, hydrothermal alteration, and supergene processes. |
Problem-based learning |
Banded Iron-Formation & Channel Iron Deposits Basic principles controlling weathering and erosion. The role of weathering and erosion in the genesis of iron deposits. |
|
Mid Sem break (23 Sep - 29 Sep) |
Fieldwork |
MID-SEMESTER BREAK Three-day field trip, where students, in groups of 3, will conduct field mapping and sampling at the Ban Ban Springs mineralized site in SE Queensland. |
Problem-based learning |
MID-SEMESTER BREAK |
|
Week 10 (30 Sep - 06 Oct) |
Problem-based learning |
Chemical Sediments: P, K, Gypsum, and Li Deposits Evaporites in the genesis of ore deposits. |
Problem-based learning |
Supergene Cu-Pb-Zn-Mn Supergene processes in the formation of economic Cu, Pb, Zn, and Mn deposits. |
|
Week 11 (07 Oct - 13 Oct) |
Problem-based learning |
Weathering and Supergene Deposits: Bauxite, Ni-Co-Sc-Laterite Basic principles of weathering and erosion applied to igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks or sediments. |
Problem-based learning |
Tectonics & Global Distribution of Ore Deposits The role of plate tectonics in the global distribution of ore deposits. Can tectonic reconstructions help in exploration? |
|
Week 12 (14 Oct - 20 Oct) |
Problem-based learning |
Designing Exploration Programs Andy White's guide to mineral exploration. |
Problem-based learning |
Definitions and Challenges in Critical Minerals & Space Mining Group discussion and presentation on feasible commodities for exploration and production on the Moon or Mars. |
|
Week 13 (21 Oct - 27 Oct) |
Problem-based learning |
Discussion on Aspects of Course Assignment - Using Micromine and IoGas Use and interpretation of geological data. |
Policies and procedures
University policies and procedures apply to all aspects of student life. As a UQ student, you must comply with University-wide and program-specific requirements, including the:
- Student Code of Conduct Policy
- Student Integrity and Misconduct Policy and Procedure
- Assessment Procedure
- Examinations Procedure
- Reasonable Adjustments - Students Policy and Procedure
Learn more about UQ policies on my.UQ and the Policy and Procedure Library.