GEOL 5170 - Isotope Geology

Radiogenic and stable nuclides are a critical tool for dating materials, understanding planetary differentiation, and tracing provenance and process in all spheres of the earth. This course examines the theory and application of isotope geochemistry to a broad range of geologic topics. Radiometric isotope techniques (dating and geochemical tracing) are introduced through a discussion of atoms, isotopes, and radioactive decay systematics, followed by systematic discussion of a number of specific systems (e.g., uranium-lead). Applications of stable isotopes to investigating volcanism, and meteoric-hydrothermal systems are discussed. Concepts of mass-balance, mixing theory, and open and closed systems are introduced.

Requisites

Credit Hours: 4.0
Repeat/Retake Information: May not be retaken.

Lecture/Lab Hours: 3.0 lecture

Eligible grades: A-F,WP,WF,FN,FS,AU,I