Ternary System: Determination of crystal-liquid and crystal-crystal proportions using the Lever and Tangent Rules

R. K. Smith
,
The University of Texas at San Antonio
Initial Publication Date: July 15, 2008

Summary

Students gain the experience of determining crystal-liquid and crystal-crystal proportions using the Lever and Tangent Rules in this simple ternary eutectic system.

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Context

Audience

This exercise is designed for a sophomore or junior level required course in petrology.

Skills and concepts that students must have mastered

Students should be able to read ternary diagrams.

How the activity is situated in the course

This is a stand-alone exercise.

Goals

Content/concepts goals for this activity

The purpose of this exercise it to give students the experience of determining crystal-liquid and crystal-crystal proportions using the Lever and Tangent Rules in a simple ternary eutectic system.

Higher order thinking skills goals for this activity

Other skills goals for this activity

Description of the activity/assignment

This problem set uses the Lever and Tangent Riles in a simple ternary eutectic system to determine crystal-liquid and crystal-crystal properties.

Determining whether students have met the goals

Students have successfully completed the assignment if they answer the problems completely and accurately and show all work.

More information about assessment tools and techniques.

Teaching materials and tips

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