Geology of the Azores

Objectives

1. To characterize the geodynamic setting of the Azores;

2. To know the most important geological events that have marked the history of the Azores;

3. To identify the main subaerial and submarine geological forms and structures of the Azores region;

4. To understand the geological evolution of the Azores islands;

5. To know the geological resources of the Azores.

Program

1. INTRODUCTION

1.1 Geography and Geodynamics

1.2 Seismic Activity

1.3 Volcanic Eruptions

1.4 Degassing

1.5 Tsunami

1.6 Landslides

2. GEOLOGY OF THE ISLANDS

2.1 Geomorphology

2.2 Tectonics

2.3 Seismovolcanic activity

2.4 Volcanological history

2.5 Geological resources

3. SUBMARINE STRUCTURES

3.1 Bathymetry

3.2 Forms and structures

Teaching Methodologies

The course is based on a series of seminars that focus on the different thematic contents. Classes are illustrated with slides and movies, mostly gathered during geological missions by the lecturers and researchers responsible for the teaching.

Bibliography

GASPAR, J.L. (1996) - Ilha Graciosa (Açores): História Vulcanológica e Avaliação do Hazard. Tese de doutoramento. Univ. Açores, 361p.

GASPAR, J.L., GUEST, J.E., DUNCAN, A.M., BARRIGA, F.J.A.S., CHESTER, D.K. (eds.) - Volcanic Geology of São Miguel Island (Azores Archipelago). Geological Society of London Memoir, 44, 309 p.

MADEIRA, J. (1998) - Estudos de Neotectónica nas ilhas do Faial, Pico e S. Jorge: uma contribuição para o conhecimento geodinâmico da junção tripla dos Açores. Tese de doutoramento, Univ. Lisboa.

PACHECO, J.M. (2001) - Processos associados ao desenvolvimento de erupções vulcânicas hidromagmáticas explosivas na ilha do Faial e sua interpretação numa perspetiva de avaliação do Hazard e minimização do risco. Tese de doutoramento. Univ. Açores, 330p.

PACHECO, J.M. et al. (2013) - Notas sobre a geologia do arquipélago dos Açores. In: R. Dias, A. Araújo, P. Terrinha, J.C. Kullberg (Eds), Geologia de Portugal, vol. 2, Escolar Editora, 595-690.