Introduction to Geochemistry

Objectives:

The course aims to give a broad introduction into the geochemical principles and research practices used to understand processes operating on, in and between Earth¿s various geochemical and geobiological systems (mantle, crust, oceans, atmosphere).

Content:

The course gives an introduction to fundamental geochemical methods and practices used in disciplines like aqueous biogeochemistry, trace element geochemistry and isotope geochemistry. Beginning with the origin and formation of elements, and their distribution between Earth¿s reservoirs, this course discusses why and how geochemical reactions occur and give rise to global biogeochemical cycling between reservoirs. These concepts will be developed and applied using a combination of local/regional fieldwork and student-active learning.

On completion of the course the student should have the following learning outcomes defined in terms of knowledge, skills and general competence:

Knowledge

The student can

• explain the origin of the elements in the universe
• compare the composition of the Earth´s main geochemical reservoirs
• use the behavior of chemical elements and their isotopes to identify and explain geochemical processes
• distinguish between major and trace elements in rocks and aqueous systems
• summarize what the main global element cycles are, and the most important processes that control these cycles
• describe the carbonate system and its role in the global carbon cycle
• explain how reaction equilibrium constants function
• connect major microbial metabolisms with their distribution and geochemical impacts
• evaluate the behavior of geochemical species considering major pH, redox and fluid-rock-microbiological processes

Skills

The student can

• quantify uncertainty associated with measuring parameters in geochemistry
• compile and evaluate real geochemical data (open source) to develop conclusions
• process and interpret stable and radiogenic isotope ratio data
• design and conduct simple fieldwork strategies for geochemical sampling
• balance diverse geochemical reaction equations (redox, fluid-mineral)
• use geochemical data to identify microbial habitats and niches

General competence

The student can

• effectively and ethically conduct fieldwork, sampling and analysis individually and collaboratively
• use basic data management practices and software (e.g. spreadsheets)
• formulate basic research questions and hypotheses
• use a precise scientific language to communicate results
• effectively use graphical/visual aids to present findings (e.g. for a poster)
• conduct field excursions in accordance to the HMS practice at GEO/UiB