Research Techniques in Geology

This course is designed to train students at the graduate level in a wide variety of techniques commonly used to collect standard types of data used in geological research. These techniques include x-ray diffraction; X-ray fluorescence; wet chemical techniques for dissolving silicate rock materials; atomic absorption spectrophotometry; H2O and CO2 analysis; U-stage optical techniques; and methods of storing, retrieving and analyzing data using the department's interactive computer terminal. Other techniques to be added as they become available. In the lecture portion of this course, the theoretical basis for each technique will be discussed. Practical applications of each technique to geological problems will be strongly emphasized. Students will be required to show competence in each of the techniques to successfully complete the course. cr 3