Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Spring 2026 - EASC 208 D100

Introduction to Geochemistry (3)

Class Number: 2473

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Jan 5 – Apr 10, 2026: Mon, Fri, 9:30–10:20 a.m.
    Burnaby

  • Exam Times + Location:

    Apr 16, 2026
    Thu, 8:30–11:30 a.m.
    Burnaby

  • Prerequisites:

    EASC 202, CHEM 121, 122 and 126. All with a grade of C- or better.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

Distribution and cycles of elements, minerals and rocks on and within Earth. Understanding and evolution of Earth systems through high and low temperature fluid-rock interaction, aqueous geochemistry, stable and radiogenic isotopes. Quantitative.

COURSE DETAILS:

General: 
- Introductory concepts of geochemical systems:
    - Nucleosynthesis, Atomic structure, Periodic Table, Cosmic Evolution
- Global Chemical Differentiation
- Chemical Bonds and Ionic Substitution in Crystals
- Water-rock Interactions and Element Migration
- Thermodynamics and Phase Equilibria
- Stable Isotopes
- Radiogenic Isotopes and Geochronology
- Stable Mineral Assemblages and Phase Diagrams
- Geothermobarometry
- Atmospheric/Oceanic Evolution and Chemistry
- Geochemical Cycles
- Geochemistry of the Major Rock Types:
    - Sedimentary Rocks, Igneous Rocks, Metamorphic Rocks

Grading

  • Midterm Examination 20%
  • Laboratory Assignments 20%
  • Final Lab Examination 25%
  • Final Theory Examination 35%

Materials

MATERIALS + SUPPLIES:

Calculator

RECOMMENDED READING:

Introduction to Geochemistry: Principles and Applications; Misra, K.C.; Wiley-Blackwell.

Or

Principles and Applications of Geochemistry, 2nd edition, G. Faure, Prentice-Hall Inc., 1997, ISBN 978-0-02-336450-1


REQUIRED READING NOTES:

Your personalized Course Material list, including digital and physical textbooks, are available through the SFU Bookstore website by simply entering your Computing ID at: shop.sfu.ca/course-materials/my-personalized-course-materials.

Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

At SFU, you are expected to act honestly and responsibly in all your academic work. Cheating, plagiarism, or any other form of academic dishonesty harms your own learning, undermines the efforts of your classmates who pursue their studies honestly, and goes against the core values of the university.

To learn more about the academic disciplinary process and relevant academic supports, visit: 


RELIGIOUS ACCOMMODATION

Students with a faith background who may need accommodations during the term are encouraged to assess their needs as soon as possible and review the Multifaith religious accommodations website. The page outlines ways they begin working toward an accommodation and ensure solutions can be reached in a timely fashion.