Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Spring 2018 - EASC 400 D200

Selected Topics in Earth Sciences (3)

Isotope Geochemistry

Class Number: 4382

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Jan 3 – Apr 10, 2018: Mon, 2:30–4:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Exam Times + Location:

    Apr 18, 2018
    Wed, 8:30–11:30 a.m.
    Burnaby

  • Instructor:

    Dirk Kirste
    dkirste@sfu.ca
    1 778 782-5365
    Office: TASCT 1 Room 7411

  • Prerequisites:

    To be determined by instructor.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

An advanced, in-depth treatment of a specialized area of earth sciences.

COURSE DETAILS:

General:
Isotope Geochemistry introduces students to theoretical and practical aspects of geochemical isotope systems, radiometric geochronology and stable isotope geochemistry. The course provides students with the knowledge to understand and interpret isotope data used to study Earth processes from the origin of the earth to the timing of tectonic events to the source and fate of groundwater.

Course Topics:
1.      The nucleus, nuleosynthesis and isotopes
2.      Radioactive decay and geochronology
3.      Cosmochemistry
4.      Isotope geochemistry of the mantle
5.      Isotope geochemistry of the crust
6.      Stable isotope geochemistry
7.      Unconventional isotopes
8.      Isotope geochemistry of noble gases

Midterm and final exams. Submit weekly/ biweekly laboratory assignments.

COURSE-LEVEL EDUCATIONAL GOALS:

Learning Outcomes

Critical Evaluation Skills Development: students are given the opportunity to understand the basic knowledge that underlies many of the modern applications of isotope geochemistry. Data from real studies will be used to teach how to use isotope studies to query conventional geochemical approaches.

Grading

  • Assignments 40%
  • Midterm Exam 25%
  • Final Exam 35%

NOTES:

Prerquesite: EASC 208

Materials

RECOMMENDED READING:

White, W.M. 2015. Isotope Geochemistry. Wiley, West Sussex, UK 478 pp.
ISBN: 978-0-470-6567

Registrar Notes:

SFU’s Academic Integrity web site http://students.sfu.ca/academicintegrity.html is filled with information on what is meant by academic dishonesty, where you can find resources to help with your studies and the consequences of cheating.  Check out the site for more information and videos that help explain the issues in plain English.

Each student is responsible for his or her conduct as it affects the University community.  Academic dishonesty, in whatever form, is ultimately destructive of the values of the University. Furthermore, it is unfair and discouraging to the majority of students who pursue their studies honestly. Scholarly integrity is required of all members of the University. http://www.sfu.ca/policies/gazette/student/s10-01.html

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS