Course description

Geochemistry & Geochronology is a quantitative course that introduces third-year science students to the basic principles and practical applications of geochemistry. The course provides important background for students interested in pursuing advanced degrees in Earth and Environmental Sciences and the knowledge for professional geoscientists to use and interpret geochemical information. The course introduces conceptual knowledge of processes controlling the bulk composition of the Earth and other objects in the solar system; processes controlling the differentiation of the Earth into crust, mantle and atmosphere; plate tectonic controls on high temperature geochemistry and environmental controls on low temperature geochemistry. Analytical techniques used for major and trace element, and isotope analysis, and methods for presenting and interpreting different types of chemical data will be introduced in lectures and through practical exercises. The practical exercises, including a mid-semester group exercise, will develop teamwork and reporting skills and will be based in part on real life geochemical datasets. The course is delivered as two three-hour sessions per week, which will comprise a mixture of lectures and practicals. The course will be assessed based on six assessed practicals or reports, contributions to a group exercise and an end of semester exam.

Archived offerings