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Academic Year 2004/2005

Isotope Geochemistry: Tracers of Environmental Processes
E&ES 323 SP

This course explains from first principles the main stable and radioactive isotopic techniques used in geochemistry and geology. The course also demonstrates the manner in which isotope geochemistry has been utilized to solve some of the major problems in the earth and environmental sciences. The oxygen, hydrogen, carbon, nitrogen, and sulfur stable isotope systems and the Rb-Sr, Sm-Nd, U-Th-Pb, and K-Ar radioactive systems will be discussed in detail. This course will emphasize the application of isotope techniques in hydrological, geochemical, and ecological studies.

MAJOR READINGS

G. Faure, PRINCIPLES OF ISOTOPE GEOLOGY, 2nd Edition, 1986
Supplement: I. Clark and P. Fritz, ENVIRONMENTAL ISOTOPES IN HYDROGEOLOGY, 1997

EXAMINATIONS AND ASSIGNMENTS

Two exams, one term paper, problem sets.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS and/or COMMENTS

An upper level course for seniors and graduates in the natural sciences (E&ES, CHEM, PHYS, BIOL, ASTR). Good chemistry background required (CHEM 141 or CHEM 143). Geology background (E&ES 101, E&ES 105, E&ES 280) desirable. Suggested requirements: E&ES 101 or E&ES 199, or see instructor.

COURSE FORMAT: Lecture

REGISTRATION INFORMATION

Level: UGRD    Credit: 1    Gen Ed Area Dept: NONE    Grading Mode: Graded   

Prerequisites: CHEM141 OR CHEM143 Links to Web Resources For This Course.

Last Updated on MAR-21-2005

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