Structure and Dynamics of CMB Region OpenCourseWare: A Free Graduate Study Geology Course by MIT on the Core Mantle Boundary

Published Jan 15, 2009

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An assessment of the knowledge surrounding the Core Mantle Boundary (CMB) will be highlighted in 'Structure and Dynamics of CMB Region', a free online course offered by Massachusetts Institute of Technology. This course outlines the advanced techniques used to describe the CMB. This graduate level course would be beneficial to anyone pursuing a master's degree in Earth Science or Planetary Science.

Structure and Dynamics of CMB Region: Course Specifics

Degree Level Free Audio Video Downloads
Graduate Yes No No Yes

Lectures/Notes Study Materials Tests/Quizzes
Yes Yes No

Structure and Dynamics of CMB Region: Course Description

Among all the physical discontinuities within the Earth, this course covers the Core Mantle Boundary (CMB) as one of the most significant. This OpenCourseWare examines this geophysical region, which forms the divide between the silicate lower mantle and the liquid outer core. Professors Stephane Rondenay and Sang-Heon Shim will lead students through topics, such as CMB detection and topography, ultra-low velocity zones, core rigidity zones and coupling between the core and the mantle. Other topics include geochemical restraints and material textures. The goal of this OpenCourseWare is to understand of the main role of the CMB with regard to core and mantle dynamics. A list with background reading material will be provided to further research this subject. Notes from the course lectures are paired with sample student presentations from the on-campus class to provide additional resources for this OpenCourseWare.

The reading list and lecture notes are available for free online and serve as the main study materials for this course. More information is available at the CMB region course home page.

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