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Geochemical Applications and Techniques - GEOS337

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 techniques have 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 include a review of bulk analytical methods and microbeam techniques: x-ray fluorescence, electron microprobe, inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (including laser ablation microanalysis), and thermal ionisation mass spectrometry. Class work comprises lectures, tutorials, computer practicals and laboratory/instrument practicals.

Credit Points: 3
When Offered:

2014 - Next offered in 2014

Staff Contact(s): Dr Norman Pearson
Prerequisites:

Permission of Executive Dean of Faculty Prerequisite Information

Corequisites:

GEOS343 or GEOS314

NCCW(s): GEOS437
Unit Designation(s):

Science

Technology

Unit Type:
Assessed As: Graded
Offered By:

Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences

Faculty of Science

Timetable Information

For unit timetable information and session dates for external offerings please visit the Timetables@Macquarie Website