Geology of mineral deposits 1300-OGZ3W

The goal of the lecture is to familiarise the students with the basic genetic types of mineral deposits. The lecture starts with the discussion of the history of ore extraction and with definitions of the basic economic-deposit terms. Subsequently, the basic examination methods for mineral deposits are presented along with their classification. The adapted geotectonic classification, in relation to which the basic classes and types of mineral deposits are discussed, is based on the lithospheric plate tectonics. Afterwards, the primary types of mineral deposits are introduced, the most characteristic examples presented for each of them, their origin and economic significance described comprehensively. Regarding the fossil fuel group, the deposits of petroleum, natural gas and bituminous shales are discussed along with natural resources of the future such as gas hydrates, tight gas and shale gas.

Type of course

obligatory courses

Prerequisites (description)

The lecture and the exercises are basically directed towards the students who should have possessed the knowledge required to complete most subjects present during the I and II year of the studies (e.g. Dynamic Geology, Mineralogy, Geochemistry, Structural Geology, Petrology, Chemistry). The geology of mineral deposits is a subdiscipline of geological sciences which uses the fruit of all geological sciences to describe the deposits.

Course coordinators

Krzysztof Nejbert

Learning outcomes

A student who has completed the lectures and exercises in the subject of Geology of Mineral Deposits has the basic knowledge regarding main ore deposits and their distribution in the world, and understands the processes which lead to their creation. He can adjust the proper set of research instruments used to identify and explore the individual deposits and he can recognise the geological environments preferable for the basic genetic deposit types. Generally speaking, he is capable of designing an exploration and research program for the main ore types.

Assessment criteria

The lecture ends with a written test exam during the summer term. In order to pass, one has to score 51 out of 100 possible points.

Additional information

Information on level of this course, year of study and semester when the course unit is delivered, types and amount of class hours - can be found in course structure diagrams of apropriate study programmes. This course is related to the following study programmes:

Applied geology

Additional information (registration calendar, class conductors, localization and schedules of classes), might be available in the USOSweb system:

Description of 1300-OGZ3W in USOSweb