GEOL 3200 - Geochemistry

3 unit(s)

Course covers the applications of chemistry commonly used by Earth scientists. Includes discussions on thermodynamics and chemical equilibrium, water chemistry, water contamination (and what to do about it), chemical weathering, diagensis, carbonate chemistry, crystal chemistry, and behavior of trace elements and isotopes, igneous geochemistry, metamorphic geochemistry, petroleum geochemistry, ore-forming processes. Practical experience in the analysis and interpretation of chemical data through a research project based on publicly available data.

Prerequisites: GEOL 2100, CHEM 1100

Course Learning Outcomes List
After completing this course students will be able to:

1. Describe the chemical processes involved in natural geochemical cycles;

2. Use basic chemistry concepts, such as equilibrium and pH-Eh reactions, in the assessment of sedimentary processes;

3. Use real laboratory data of water to assess the quality of the water and, if compromised, to design suitable solutions for cleanup;

4. Use isotope ratios to determine the age of igneous and metamorphic rocks, the provenance of igneous rocks, the mixing of groundwater, or paleotemperatures throughout geologic time;

5. Use chemical and minera logical data to explain the formation of selected ore deposits; and

6. Demonstrate ability to graph and program simple numerical procedures using spreadsheets.

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