Ge-140b: Radiogenic Isotope Geochemistry 

9 units (3-0-6); An introduction to the principles of radiogenic isotope systems in earth and planetary science, with emphasis on the applications of these systems, from dating to forensic. Topics to be covered include nucleosynthesis, radioactive decay phenomena, geochronology, geochronometry, extinct radioactivities, the history of the early Solar System, cosmogenic isotopes and forensic geochemistry.

Offered in Winter quarter, in odd numbered years.

Ge-141: Isotope Cosmochemistry

9 units (3-0-6): first term. An introduction to the study of the origin, abundances and distribution of the elements and their isotopes in the Universe, with emphasis on the isotopic constraints into the conditions, events and processes that shaped our Solar System. Topics to be covered include: cosmology and the age of the Universe, the age of the Milky Way and the duration of nucleosynthesis, the fundamentals of isotopic fractionations, the key roles of isotopic anomalies in understanding Solar System dynamics, early Solar System chronology from short- and long-lived nuclei, chondritic meteorite components as clues to solar nebula and asteroid evolution, as well as planetary formation and chronology (e.g., Moon, Mars, Earth).

Offered in Fall quarter, in even numbered years.

Ge-219: Non-Traditional Isotopes Seminar

9 units (3-0-6); The course deals with advanced topics in stable and radiogenic isotope geo-/cosmochemistry and builds on Ge 140a and b, with emphasis on non-traditional isotope systems (Mg, Fe, Ti, Mo, U, etc…). Starting with close examination of seminal papers, each topic will build up to a discussion of the remaining outstanding questions. Topics to be covered will be guided by class interests. Example subjects could include: the early solar system, extinct radioactivities, nucleosynthetic anomalies, the early Earth, paleoredox reconstructions, medical use of stable isotopes. All participants will lead discussions of papers and present at least one lecture on a relevant subject. Grades will include participation, a review/proposal paper, and oral examination(s).

Offered in Spring quarter, every year.