EOS 240: Geochemistry#
Attention
Course last offered Spring 2025.
In geochemistry, we use the tools of chemistry to understand the Earth and how it works. Principles of thermodynamics and kinetics will be applied to understand key processes that control of the geochemistry of the Earth, from the low temperature and pressure conditions of Earth’s surface environment to higher temperature and pressure conditions in Earth’s interior. We will consider processes operating on time scales of millions (planetary formation) to hundreds (climate change) of years. The lab will provide hands-on experience using real data to solve geological problems.
- Course outline
- Lecture slides
- Lecture 1: Course introduction
- Lecture 2: Making the elements
- Lecture 3: Equilibrium Conditions
- Lecture 4: Condensation
- Lecture 5: Making the Earth
- Lecture 6: Trace elements
- Lecture 7: Batch and fractional crystallization
- Lecture 8: Fractional Crystallization and Bulk Partition Coefficients
- Lecture 9: Partial melting and explaining the crust
- Lecture 10: Mid-term Review
- Lecture 11: Radioactive Decay
- Lecture 12: Model ages
- Lecture 13: The Atmosphere
- Lecture 14: The Long Term Carbon Cycle
- Lecture 15: Past Climate
- Lecture 16: Stable isotopes
- Lecture 17: CO2 in seawater
- Lecture 18: CO2 in seawater
- Lecture 19: Alkalinity and DIC
- Lecture 20: Carbonate saturation
- Lab assignments