Mineral Physics

3 Credits

Contact:Jean-Philippe PERRILLAT

Mineral physics is essential in interpreting observational data from many of the disciplines in the Earth sciences, including geodynamics, seismology, geochemistry, petrology, and planetary science. Topics covered will include solid-state theory, thermodynamics and lattice dynamics, as well as mechanical (elasticity, plasticity) and transport properties of minerals and rocks. The course also aims to provide advanced knowledge of high pressure and high temperature science and techniques, as well as modern analytical methods (vibrational spectroscopy, X-ray probes) to investigate the structure and chemical composition of minerals. Emphasis will be on the role of mineral physics in understanding planetary interiors and plate tectonics.

Internal structure of various bodies in the solar system
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