The primary objective of the course is to acquire advanced theoretical knowledge of the geodynamic mechanisms that characterize volcanic processes and the tectonic evolution of the lithosphere, with particular reference to the Earth's active margins and hotspots. Using examples of magmatic systems from oceanic ridges, volcanic arcs, and hotspots, various characteristics of generated magmatism will be examined, and the structure and circulation of the Earth's mantle will be analyzed. The knowledge acquired will provide students with a multidisciplinary approach applicable to other Earth Science disciplines such as igneous petrology, earthquake seismology, geophysics, structural geology, and tectonics. Dublin Descriptors: •Knowledge and understanding: Students must demonstrate an understanding of the key concepts of geodynamic mechanisms feeding volcanism. They should also have learned the fundamentals of seismological techniques essential for analyzing the structure of the Earth's mantle, the dynamic relationship between ongoing mantle convection and plate tectonics, the causes of mantle heterogeneities, how melt is generated in the mantle, and the role active volcanoes play in influencing natural hazards and climate change. •Ability to apply knowledge and understanding: Students will acquire knowledge of the internal Earth's stratification and composition and the geophysical techniques used to study its structure, in particular the mantle. They should also be able to understand the global distribution of volcanism and trace back to the geodynamic processes that generate partial melt. Additionally, they should be able to illustrate how geodynamics is related to tectonic phenomena in volcanically (and seismically) active areas. •Making judgments: Students will understand the scientific importance of using and synthesizing information from various Earth Science disciplines to interpret the geodynamic mechanisms involved in the genesis and evolution of magmas. •Communication skills: Students should acquire the ability to describe and interpret geophysical observations linking mantle dynamics to surface natural phenomena such as volcanism and seismicity, discussing various data and models of the Earth's deep structure with interested parties. •Learning skills: By attending the lectures, students will develop their learning and analytical skills regarding deep geodynamic processes in tectonically active areas, which can be used in other disciplines within the study program.

The course requires basic knowledge of geology and petrology.

Brief introduction to the Solid Earth system. Seismology overview. Internal structure, temperature, and composition of the Earth. History and theory of plate tectonics. Distribution, origin, and character of volcanism in relation to the geodynamic environment. Types of plate margins and interplate volcanism. Thermal and mantle convection. Intraplate volcanism. Geodynamic mechanisms behind hotspot volcanism: mantle plumes and shallower alternative processes. Inverse problem. Introduction to seismic tomography. Seismic anisotropy and attenuation. Impact of mantle convection on the surface (dynamic topography, gravity anomalies, and horizontal divergence of surface plate motion). From global mantle circulation to regional: case studies of active volcanic systems in complex geodynamic contexts. Basic concepts of volcanic risk and monitoring.

Reference texts:
- Teaching material (PowerPoint slides and additional sheets) provided by the professor.
- Textbooks:
Condie, K. C. Earth as an Evolving Planetary System. Elsevier, 2021.
Becker, T. and Faccenna, C. Tectonic Geodynamics (https://www-udc.ig.utexas.edu/external/becker/preprints/tectonic_geodynamics_draft.pdf).
Duarte, J. C. Dynamics of Plate Tectonics and Mantle Convection. Elsevier, 2023 - Turcotte, D. and Gerald, S. Geodynamics. Cambridge University Press, 2014.

Introduction to Solid Earth: direct and indirect methods. Fundamentals of seismology: propagation of seismic waves, types and characteristics of waves, seismic recording and installation, reading of a seismogram. Internal Earth’ structure: mechanical and compositional layers, physical discontinuities, receiver functions methodology. Plate tectonics theory and implications. Types of plate boundaries and related volcanism. Mechanisms of magmatic melt formation. Types and main characteristics of volcanoes, volcanic eruptions, and lava. Heat transport mechanisms. Thermal and mantle convection. Hotspots, theory and evolution of mantle plumes, large igneous provinces, and their connection with intraplate volcanism. Inverse problem and seismic tomography. Visualization and description of regional and global mantle tomographic models. Seismic anisotropy and attenuation. Surface geophysical observations related to mantle convection. Regional geodynamics: evolution of the African Rift Valley and Icelandic volcanism. Products of volcanic eruptions. Introduction to volcanic risk and basics of volcano monitoring.

Classroom lectures consisting of the presentation of the theoretical course content and exercises (using GPlates and SubMachine) in the computer lab.

Course attendance is recommended.

Assessment will be conducted through an oral examination. The exam aims to verify: (i) the use of appropriate technical language, (ii) knowledge of the proposed topics, (iii) the ability to think critically and independently, and (iv) the ability to critically correlate various course topics. At the end of the computer lab exercise, a brief report will be required abd discussed during the oral exam. A positive final evaluation will be expressed with a grade ranging from 18 to 30 with honors.