Geological Sciences

I. Introduction to Geological Mapping, Surveying, and Map Preparation The Geological Map of Italy at scales 1:100,000 and 1:50,000: history, operational framework, organizational structure, costs, and timing. Geological surveying: equipment, preliminary studies, selection of itineraries, and mapping criteria. Outcropping and subcropping rocks. Reading the geological landscape. Field data collection: observation density and criteria for drawing boundaries in the field. Representation of linear and planar elements on maps: folds, fold axes, axial planes, bedding and fault planes. Compilation of the legend and explanatory notes, with attention to the correct use of scientific Italian. Construction of a stratigraphic column. Principles of digital geological mapping: QGIS and QField. Use of satellite imagery and digital terrain models as tools for modern geological mapping. Concepts and problems of stratimetry: classroom exercises. Construction and analysis of geological boundaries: the dip/strike triangle and contour lines. True and apparent dip. Six one-day field excursions and subsequent classroom discussions, including the construction of 1:10,000-scale geological maps and hand-drawn geological cross-sections. Each field trip addresses one or more of the main topics discussed during lectures, with additional focus on specific subjects. II. Fundamental Concepts of Stratigraphy Principles of superposition and cross-cutting relationships. Dikes. Facies: definition, logic of lateral and vertical transitions, and facies models. Walther’s Law. Correlations. Lithostratigraphy and mapping: definition, meaning, and hierarchy of lithostratigraphic units, and criteria for their cartographic representation. Types of boundaries. Marker beds. Criteria for estimating formation thickness in outcrop. Use of paleontological data in geological mapping. Criteria for determining stratigraphic polarity. Continental Quaternary deposits. Principles of Quaternary stratigraphy. Primary geometries of rock bodies: major unconformities as physical boundaries of sedimentary successions and mappable units. Sedimentary cycles. Synsedimentary tectonics and basin boundaries: paleofaults and paleoescarpments, and their cartographic expression. Relative sea-level changes and their impact on sedimentation. Evolution of sedimentary basins: from rift basins to foredeeps. Syn- and post-rift deposits. Genetic interpretation of formational boundaries and their correlation criteria. III. Fundamental Concepts of Sedimentology and Regional Geology Carbonate factories. Sedimentation rates. Origin and classification of platform margins. Slope vs. escarpment. Progradation, aggradation, and backstepping. The pelagic factory. Drowning of carbonate platforms: drowning unconformities and drowning successions. Relationships between carbonate platforms and tectonics. Sedimentological and geometrical characteristics of basin-margin successions. Gravity flows: types and deposits. Tectono-stratigraphic evolution of the Lazio–Abruzzi and Umbria–Marche–Sabina domains. “PCP–Basin” systems and distribution of condensed deposits. Jurassic rifting, paleotectonics, and Apennine tectonics. Overview of the Mesozoic paleogeography of Italy. IV. Fundamental Concepts of Tectonics and Structural Geology Faults: direct and indirect field recognition criteria and cartographic representation. Fault interpretation. Kinematic indicators: slickensides, pitch measurements, steps. Complex-movement faults. Tip lines: 3D fault continuity. Frontal, oblique, and lateral ramps. Extensional systems: rotational and non-rotational faults, detachment levels, transfer faults. Compressional systems: thrusts and folds; propagation, piggy-back and overstep sequences; duplex structures; strike-slip faults. Flexural slip and parasitic folds. Field and map examples. Synsedimentary faults and growth structures. Strike-slip systems: positive and negative flower structures; pull-apart basins. Dublin Descriptors Knowledge and understanding – The student will acquire fundamental knowledge of geological mapping, field survey methods, and the interpretation of the landscape in geological terms. Applying knowledge and understanding – The student will develop the ability to apply analytical methods required for the construction and interpretation of a geological map, using it as a key technical tool for land planning and management. Making judgments – Through lectures and exercises, the student will develop critical thinking and judgment skills related to the construction and interpretation of geological maps. Communication skills – During lectures and exercises, students will be encouraged to interact with peers and instructors to develop a specific scientific vocabulary and the communication skills needed to engage with a wide range of professionals and stakeholders. Learning skills – The competences acquired will enable students to pursue further studies and professional development independently.

The student should have attended at least the courses in Geography, Geology 1 and 2 with Laboratory, and Paleontology; basic principles of stratigraphy and the ability to draw a geological cross-section are assumed to have been acquired. Proper knowledge and use of the Italian language are also required.

Lecture notes. A.V. Damiani – Geologia sul Terreno e Rilevamento Geologico. Editoriale Grasso. B.C.M. Butler & J.D. Bell – Interpretation of Geological Maps. In addition to the course program, each student will receive three scientific articles in English (in digital format) to allow for a more in-depth study of topics covered during the lectures.

Attendance is not compulsory; however, due to the practical nature of the course, regular participation is strongly recommended

The course concludes with an oral examination as the final assessment, which students may take only after successfully completing a preliminary practical exercise.

The course includes lectures, classroom exercises, and six one-day geological field surveys conducted in different geological settings.