Variation Diagrams and the Evolution of Thingmuli Lavas, Iceland
Summary
In this problem set students are provided with an EXCEL spreadsheet containing major element analyses of lavas frm Thingmuli Volcano in Iceland. They are asked to construct variation diagrams (Harker plots) and then explain the trends they see for various elements. I use this problem set to introduce the use of EXCEL and to help students to think about the connections between mineral assemblage and rock chemistry.
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Context
Audience
This activity is designed for use in a sophomore or junior level required petrology course for majors.
Skills and concepts that students must have mastered
Students should have a basic understanding of how to use Excel.
How the activity is situated in the course
This is a stand-alone exercise.
Goals
Content/concepts goals for this activity
This problem set uses Excel to help students to think about the connections between mineral assemblage and rock chemistry.
Higher order thinking skills goals for this activity
Other skills goals for this activity
Description of the activity/assignment
In this problem set students are provided with an EXCEL spreadsheet containing major element analyses of lavas frm Thingmuli Volcano in Iceland. They are asked to construct variation diagrams (Harker plots) and then explain the trends they see for various elements. I use this problem set to introduce the use of EXCEL and to help students to think about the connections between mineral assemblage and rock chemistry.
Determining whether students have met the goals
Teaching materials and tips
- Activity Description/Assignment (Microsoft Word 28kB May30 08)
- EXCEL spreadsheet containing rock analyses. (Excel 16kB Jun26 03)
- Instructors Notes (Microsoft Word 22kB May30 08)
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