Primary objectives of the laboratory:
Observational skills are primary assets of scientists, especially in the field. During this laboratory, look at the general setting of a location first, i.e. the big picture. Secondly, observe the rocks and sediments: their orientations, textures, layering, patterns, colors, structures, relationships, etc.
Writing complete and detailed field notes is critical to answering scientific questions. Field notes are written completely on location and serve as the primary resource, once you leave the field. Thorough field notes include measurements, maps, sketches, and detailed descriptions.
Collecting useful samples requires noting the location and orientation of the sample (i.e. which way is up). Each sample must be labeled to facilitate referencing.
Use the information you learned in class to interpret the geological settings and features. Remember that scientists use precise measurements to show relationships and reduce ambiguity.
At the end of the lab, students will turn field notes to be graded for completeness and detail, and the answers to the questions listed below.
Determine the location, longitude and latitude, using the Honolulu Quadrangle map, and note the location.
Note the date, time, and weather conditions. Are the rocks wet or dry?
Station 1
Draw a sketch of the outcrop.
Describe and identify the rocks and features.
Measure the average thickness of the lava flows.
Measure the average thickness of the dikes.
Explain how dikes form.
Why would the edges of a dike have a different texture than the center of the dike?
Measure the distances between two sets of dikes, and calculate an average distance.
Given that windward coast of the Koolau shield volcano is approximately 50 km in length, use the previous calculation to determine the total number of possible dikes from Kakuku point to Makapuu.
Station 2
Draw a sketch of the outcrop.
Describe and identify the rocks and features.
Measure the average thickness of the lava flows.
Why does more vegetation grow on these outcrops?
Give the compass heading from this station to Mokoli'i (Chinaman's Hat)
Use the map to determine the elevation of this station.
Station 3
Describe the evidence for mass wasting (landslides) in this area.
Station 4
Draw a sketch of the outcrop.
Describe and identify the rocks and features.
Measure the average thickness of the lava flows.
Explain the formation of these rocks.