Units

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Sample subject outline - Semester 1 2013

Note: Subject outlines often change before the semester begins. Below is a sample outline.

Rationale

The geosciences represent the study of the interaction of physical, biological and chemical processes in the fractionation and differentiation of the earth. Geochemistry is therefore an essential component of understanding presently active systems within the Earth and the origin and evolution of the Earth.

The unit is a vital introduction to the nature of geochemical tools and their utilisation in the environmental and geological sciences.

The unit subsumes and extends the descriptive approaches to environmental and geological systems in earlier units within the applied geology and applied environmental science co-majors by demonstrating how geochemical tools are used to unravel the origin, formation and history of complex natural systems.

Aims

This unit aims to allow you to have the theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary to use the wide range of geochemical tools that are standard for modern geoscientists to address environmental and geological problems.

Objectives

In completing this unit you should:

1. Understand the distribution and mobility of elements in the various reservoirs in the earth, from the deep earth to the surficial environment.

2. Have knowledge of the various analytical tools and their application that are available to the modern geoscientist.

3. Know how physical systems within the earth interact and lead to geochemical differentiation. Conversely how geochemistry can be used to fingerprint the nature of geochemical differentiation and consequently physical processes.

4. Become adept at problem recognition, problem solving, communication, time management and independent work skills

Content

• The fractionation and distribution of earth's material through geological and environmental processes on molecular (mineralogical), elemental and isotopic scale.


• The use of radiogenic isotope systems in dating geological processes. The use of radiogenic and stable isotope variations as tracers of fractionation processes.


• The use of thermodynamics to understand the pressure and temperature conditions of formation of mineral associations.

Practical work examines the geochemistry of soils, water and sedimentary, igneous and metamorphic rocks using methods of quantitative geochemical analysis and computing.

Critical analysis, problem solving, written communication, project development and time management skills are embedded within the curriculum.

Approaches to Teaching and Learning

Teaching and learning strategies include formal lectures, practical sessions, project work and small group discussion groups. Lectures focus on the exploration of concepts and utilise a 'Socratic' style of presentation in which student involvement is facilitated. These sessions challenge you to become critical thinkers through a mixture of review, analysis and extension. Practical sessions are largely self-learning exercises. Project work, which encourages problem-solving skills, integrates theory and practice. Completed by independently written reports, the project work, which also involves group work, requires students to recognise and balance individual and group contributions. Undertaken within a specific timeframe, the projects also develop time management skills. Group discussions provide interaction with fellow students and allow specific issues to be debated or extended.

Assessment

40% of assessment will be exam based with a mid semester and end semester theory examinations
60% of assessment will be research papersWritten feedback on a weekly basis on their practical assignments.
Verbal and written feedback on research papers.

Assessment name: Examination (Theory)
Description: Examines knowledge of geochemical tools and their application.
Relates to objectives: 1, 2 & 3
Weight: 40%
Internal or external: Internal
Group or individual: Individual
Due date: End Semester

Assessment name: Project (research)
Description: reportThree research papers that will be done sequently through semester and that are linked to the lectures.
Relates to objectives: 1, 2, 3 & 4.
Weight: 60%
Internal or external: Internal
Group or individual: Individual
Due date: Throughout Semester

Academic Honesty

QUT is committed to maintaining high academic standards to protect the value of its qualifications. To assist you in assuring the academic integrity of your assessment you are encouraged to make use of the support materials and services available to help you consider and check your assessment items. Important information about the university's approach to academic integrity of assessment is on your unit Blackboard site.

A breach of academic integrity is regarded as Student Misconduct and can lead to the imposition of penalties.

Resource materials

Required Text:

White WM (2009) Geochemistry an on-line textbook:

References:

1. Walther JV (2005). Essentials of Geochemistry
2. Rollinson H (1993) Using Geochemical Data: Evaluation, Presentation, Interpretation, Longman Scientific and Technical, 352pp.
3. Best MG (1995) Igneous and Metamorphic Petrology, New York: WH Freeman, 630pp.
4. Faure G (1992) Principles and Applications of Inorganic Chemistry, MacMillan Publishing Company, 626pp.
5. Hall A (1996) Igneous Petrology, 2nd edition, Longman
5. McBirney AR (1993) Igneous Petrology, 2nd edition, Boston: Jones and Bartlett, 508pp.
6. Yardley BW (1989) An introduction to Metamorphic Petrology, New York: Longman, 248pp.

Risk assessment statement

Workplace Health and Safety requirements relevant to this unit relate particularly to fieldwork. A risk assessment is undertaken for the field excursion in accord with Faculty of Science requirements. You will be provided with safety guidelines prior to each trip. Daily reminders are given at the beginning of each field day. A diary is kept with regard to all safety reminders and issues. A qualified first aid officer accompanies each trip in accord with University guidelines.

Disclaimer - Offer of some units is subject to viability, and information in these Unit Outlines is subject to change prior to commencement of semester.

Last modified: 09-Jan-2013