Module GL3304: Isotopes and analytical techniques
| Co-ordinator: | Dr Quentin Crowley |
|---|---|
| Course Type: | Mandatory |
| Assessment: | Theory examination (66%) coursework (34%). |
| ECTS: | 5 credits |
| Prerequisites: | GL2203, GL2204 |
Contact hours & timing:
Weeks 21-26, 7 hours/week |
Description(Aims):
This module consists of three components: (1) Radio-isotopes: This part of the course aims to provide a broad introduction to radioactive isotopes and the principles of geochronology (such as closure temperatures, isotope dilution and isochrons). It includes the theory and application of U-Pb, K-Ar, 40Ar-39Ar, Rb-Sr, Sm-Nd, Re-Os and Lu-Hf isotopic systems. It also introduces, fission track dating and U-Th-He dating (low temperature thermochronology). (2) The Practical Stable Isotopes course introduces the use of stable isotopes of nitrogen, carbon and oxygen in studies related to diet, trophic level and the biosphere. The theory and technology behind isotope ratio mass spectrometry is also presented. (3) Analytical techniques introduces many of the currently used methods for quantitative chemical analysis of minerals and rocks (electron probe, X-ray fluorescence, atomic absorption, inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry, thermal ionisation mass spectometry); for mineral determination (X-ray diffraction); and for imaging rocks and minerals (scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, cathodoluminescence, reflected light microscopy). Basic sample preparation techniques and site visits to various working laboratories are included.
Learning outcomes:
On successful completion of this module students should be able to outline the principles of isotopic dating, and be able to give examples of the application of the radioactive decay schemes that have been most widely used to
date ancient geological evolution. Students should be aware of the use of radiogenic isotopes as petrogenetic tracers, and of techniques for dating events during the Quaternary. (PO1, 3,4) Students should be able to describe the sample preparation and analysis methods for stable isotopes studies of organic and carbonate materials and outline the types of scientific questions that can be addressed using stable isotopes. Students will be able to explain the principles of some common analytical techniques and will have seen the relevant items of equipment in operation. They will be able to carry out simple calculations relating to processing analytical data. (PO1, 3,5)