ES3008 Geochemistry

Academic year

2024 to 2025 Semester 1

Further information on which modules are specific to your programme.

Key module information

SCOTCAT credits

15

The Scottish Credit Accumulation and Transfer (SCOTCAT) system allows credits gained in Scotland to be transferred between institutions. The number of credits associated with a module gives an indication of the amount of learning effort required by the learner. European Credit Transfer System (ECTS) credits are half the value of SCOTCAT credits.

SCQF level

SCQF level 9

The Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework (SCQF) provides an indication of the complexity of award qualifications and associated learning and operates on an ascending numeric scale from Levels 1-12 with SCQF Level 10 equating to a Scottish undergraduate Honours degree.

Planned timetable

To be arranged

This information is given as indicative. Timetable may change at short notice depending on room availability.

Module coordinator

Dr J W B Rae

This information is given as indicative. Staff involved in a module may change at short notice depending on availability and circumstances.

Module Staff

Dr J Rae, Dr P Savage

This information is given as indicative. Staff involved in a module may change at short notice depending on availability and circumstances.

Module description

This module provides an introduction to geochemistry: the study of the abundance, distribution and circulation of the chemical elements in minerals, rocks, soils, water and the atmosphere. Geochemical tools are a powerful means to study geological, economic, and environmental problems. In the module we study the origin and distribution of the chemical elements in the Earth and solar system and review thermodynamics and kinetics as applied to the Earth system. We apply thermodynamics to make quantitative predictions regarding the outcome of chemical reactions associated with geological processes. We consider the behaviour of elements, in both low temperature environments and planetary interiors. Material covered includes introductory chemistry, chemical bonding, thermodynamics, kinetics, aqueous geochemistry, mineral precipitation and dissolution, CO2 change, and planetary chemistry. We utilise geochemical tools to constrain changes in geological processes and Earth's environment.

Relationship to other modules

Pre-requisites

UNDERGRADUATE: BEFORE TAKING THIS MODULE YOU MUST HAVE ENTERED HONOURS AND PASSED ES2001 AND (ES2002 OR ES2003)

Assessment pattern

Practical Examination = 65% Coursework = 35%

Re-assessment

Practical Examination = 100%

Learning and teaching methods and delivery

Weekly contact

2 x 1 hour lectures (10 weeks), 1 x 3 hour practical (10 weeks)

Scheduled learning hours

44

The number of compulsory student:staff contact hours over the period of the module.

Guided independent study hours

106

The number of hours that students are expected to invest in independent study over the period of the module.