High Temperature Isotope Geochemistry and Geochronology

Knowledge:

• Understand trace element partitioning and fractionation of elements
• Describe the process of radioactive decay and how this can be represented using isochrons and model ages for common radiogenic isotopic systems (e.g., Rb-Sr, Sm-Nd, U-Pb)
• Understand fractionation of stable isotopes in high temperature settings
• Understand some of the challenges and potential pitfalls of using isotope geochemistry, such as open system behaviour
• Understand the basics of collecting geochemical and isotopic data, and reporting uncertainties

Skills:

• Calculate fractionation of trace elements from partitioning data
• Calculate ages and initial isotope compositions from isotopic data using isochrons and models
• Use common software for manipulating and plotting isotopic data
• Choose appropriate isotopic systems for various geological problems
• Apply isotope geochemistry and geochronology to geological problems, such as dating igneous and metamorphic events, or tracing growth of geochemical reservoirs

Competencies:

• Relate elemental fractionation to ages and growth of isotopic reservoirs
• Gain confidence with data manipulation and calculations
• Understand the broader concept of data quality and how we can check it