Module GEOL3467: Geochemistry of the Earth

Department: Earth Sciences

GEOL3467: Geochemistry of the Earth

Prerequisites

• GEOL2231 Igneous and Metamorphic Processes

Corequisites

• None

Excluded Combination of Modules

• None

Aims

• To explore the processes and timescales of Earth’s formation, and the evolution of the mantle and crust over Earth’s geological history.
• Investigate the processes responsible for the formation of the Earth and other planets.
• Critically evaluate geochemical evidence for the differentiation of the Earth (to form the core, mantle and crust).
• Use geochemical data to assess the nature and timing of Earth’s differentiation, and the chemical evolution of Earth’s interior over time.
• Explore the relationship between continental weathering and tectonics, and ocean chemistry and circulation.

Content

• Understanding the geochemical evolution of the Earth, to include:
• Earth’s formation and differentiation
• Understanding the origin of the Moon and the implications for the Earth
• Making a habitable planet – Earths water and the late veneer
• Evolution of Earth’s mantle over time
• Chondritic Earth, the origin of planetary material
• Growth and evolution of the continents
• Continents and oceans – chemistry and ocean circulation.

Learning Outcomes

• Evaluation of geochemical evidence for solid Earth processes and driving mechanisms.
• Subject knowledge and understanding of the structure, composition and history of the Earth and how these vary over geological timescales.
• Subject-specific knowledge on the uses and limitations of short- and long-lived isotopes to understand Earth’s formation and differentiation (from core formation to partial melting).
• Subject knowledge of the uses and limitations of isotopes to trace weathering and circulation in the oceans.

• Intellectual and practical skills to apply geological principles and methodologies to the solution of familiar and unfamiliar problems.
• Intellectual and practical skills to critically assess and test different hypotheses.
• Intellectual and practical skills to synthesise information/data from a variety of sources.
• Intellectual and practical skills to analyse, evaluate and interpret geological and geochemical data.

• Student experience and expertise will be improved through;
• Discipline-specific skills developed through the taught material and practical exercises.
• Interpersonal skills in class sessions including small group work and presentation skills.
• Problem solving and critical thinking in class.

Modes of Teaching, Learning and Assessment and how these contribute to the learning outcomes of the module

• This module is delivered through one term of research-led teaching, delivered in 3-hour blocks which comprise a mixture of lectures and practicals, formative exercises, group discussions and directed reading through which students learn about Earth processes and driving forces and acquire skills.
• Guidance on preparation, key and exam skills is provided.

Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

Summative Assessment

Formative Assessment:

Feedback will be provided during practical sessions.

■ Attendance at all activities marked with this symbol will be monitored. Students who fail to attend these activities, or to complete the summative or formative assessment specified above, will be subject to the procedures defined in the University's General Regulation V, and may be required to leave the University