Deformation Mechanisms and Microstructures

Laurel Goodwin, UW-Madison, and Carol Ormand, SERC at Carleton College
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Summary

In this exercise, students match microstructures to the deformation mechanisms by which they form; compare pairs of photomicrographs chosen to highlight key differences between some common microstructures; and complete a self-quiz in which they identify microstructures and infer deformation mechanisms from photomicrographs.

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Learning Goals

After successfully completing this exercise, students will be able to

  • Recognize several common, important microstructures.
  • Infer deformation mechanisms from microstructural observations.

Context for Use

We use this as a homework exercise to give students practice in both identifying microstructures and associating them with the deformation mechanisms by which they form.

Description and Teaching Materials

In this exercise, students match microstructures to the deformation mechanisms by which they form; compare pairs of photomicrographs chosen to highlight key differences between some common microstructures; and complete a self-quiz in which they identify microstructures and infer deformation mechanisms from photomicrographs.

Deformation mechanisms and microstructures exercise (Microsoft Word 2007 (.docx) 10MB May19 15)

Assessment

Assess student comprehension by grading answers to the homework questions.

References and Resources

Many of the photomicrographs in this exercise are from Tullis, J., Stünitz, H., Teyssier, C. and Heilbronner, R. 2000. Deformation Microstructures in Quartzo-Feldspathic Rocks in: Stress, Strain and Structure, A volume in honour of W D Means. Eds: M.W. Jessell and J.L.Urai. Volume 2, Journal of the Virtual Explorer.