2009 Course Handbook
GEOS437: Geochemical Applications and Techniques
On-campus dates to be determined
This is an introduction to the various analytical techniques used in inorganic geochemistry to determine the major element, trace element and isotopic composition of rocks and their constituent minerals. Advances in instrumentation and the development of new procedures has led to the acquisition of more complete data from individual samples and the more rapid processing of samples has resulted in the generation of large datasets. An emphasis is placed on understanding the fundamentals of the analytical techniques to remove the 'black-box' aura and to develop a basic working knowledge of the principles and procedures used in the evaluation and manipulation of geochemical data. Topics covered include a review of bulk analytical methods and microbeam techniques: x-ray fluorescence, electron microprobe, inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (including laser ablation microanalysis), thermal ionisation mass spectrometry. Class work comprises lectures, tutorials, computer practicals and laboratory/instrument practicals.
| Credit Points: | 2 |
| Contact Hours: | On-campus sessions only |
| When Offered: | D1 - Day; Offered in the first half-year |
| Staff Contact: | Dr Norman Pearson |
| Prerequisites: | Permission of Executive Dean of Faculty |
| Corequisites: | |
| NCCWs: | |
| Unit Designations: |
Technology
Science |
| Assessed As: | Graded |
| Offered By: |
Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences |