Geochemical Sys & Model W/Lab

This course investigates the Earth as a chemical system and the use of chemical tools to understand geologic processes. Topics include origin of the elements, formation and differentiation of the earth, igneous processes, radioactive isotopes and radiometric dating, and geochemistry of near-surface waters and the oceans. Work includes theory, sample collection, sample preparation, chemical analysis using in-house equipment, and computer modeling of the analyzed geochemical systems using the acquired data. Clear writing, data presentation, and discussions of the contemporary geochemical literature are important components of this course.