By the end of the course, students will: 1. Understand the distribution and behaviour of elements in Earth's spheres. 2. Explain the geochemical processes involved in the formation and evolution of Earth's crust, mantle, and core. 3. Apply the principles of isotopic and trace element geochemistry to Earth's systems. 4. Interpret geochemical data related to mineral resources and environmental issues. 5. Understand geochemical cycles and their relevance to Earth's resources.

Basics of chemistry, physics and mathematics.

Geochemistry of Planet Earth is a foundational course designed for first-year students in the Earth Sciences for Sustainable Development program. It explores the chemical principles governing Earth's composition, processes, and the formation of its natural resources. Key topics include the origin of elements, Earth's differentiation into crust, mantle, and core, and the geochemical cycles driving planetary systems. The course begins with an introduction to geochemical classification and Earth’s chemical makeup, followed by an exploration of processes like magmatism, weathering, and sedimentation. Students will delve into isotopic and trace element geochemistry, gaining tools to analyze and interpret Earth's evolutionary history. Later topics include hydrothermal processes, resource formation, and environmental geochemistry, emphasizing the impact of pollutants and sustainable resource management. Students will also learn analytical techniques, such as XRF and ICP-MS, to investigate geological materials. Case studies on ore deposits, hydrocarbons, and planetary comparisons highlight the relevance of geochemistry in resource exploration and environmental remediation. By the course's end, students will have a solid foundation in geochemistry, ready to tackle advanced studies in Earth and planetary sciences. The course will conclude with a discussion on various career options and future directions for further studies after completing a bachelor’s degree.

Geochemistry by William M. White (provided by teacher) Using geochemical data by Rollinson and Paese (provided by teacher) Principles of Geochemistry by Brian Mason and Claude B. Moore Introduction to Geochemistry by Kula C. Misra Selected journal articles and online resources provided during the course

Extended program Week 1: Introduction to Geochemistry Definition and scope of geochemistry Origin of elements: Big Bang nucleosynthesis and stellar processes Periodic table and geochemical classification of elements Week 2: Earth's Chemical Composition Bulk composition of Earth and its layers (crust, mantle, core) Chemical differentiation during planetary formation Comparison with meteorites and other planets Week 3: Geochemical Processes Magmatism and partial melting Crystallization and fractional differentiation Sedimentation and weathering Week 4: Geochemical Cycles The carbon cycle and climate regulation Biogeochemical cycles of nitrogen, sulfur, and phosphorus Role of oceans and atmosphere in global geochemical cycles Week 5: Isotopic Geochemistry Radiogenic isotopes: Principles and applications (e.g., U-Pb, Rb-Sr) Stable isotopes: Oxygen, carbon, and sulfur isotopes in Earth processes Applications to dating rocks and tracing sources Week 6: Major and Trace Elements Behaviour of major and trace elements in Earth's systems Goldschmidt’s classification: Lithophile, siderophile, chalcophile, atmophile elements Geochemical anomalies and their significance Week 7: Hydrothermal and Ore-Forming Processes Principles of hydrothermal geochemistry Formation of ore deposits (e.g., porphyry, VMS, and gold deposits) Case studies: Resource-rich regions and their geochemical signatures Week 8: Analytical Techniques in Geochemistry Overview of techniques: XRF, ICP-MS, SEM-EDS, TIMS Sample preparation and interpretation of data Applications in resource exploration Week 9: Energy Resources Geochemistry of hydrocarbons and coal Isotopic tools in oil and gas exploration Renewable energy and critical materials Week 10: Planetary Geochemistry Comparisons of Earth’s geochemistry with the Moon, Mars, and meteorites Implications for planetary resources Future directions in planetary geochemistry Week 11: Review and Applications Career options and paths Case studies in resource exploration and environmental remediation Group presentations: Applying geochemistry to real-world problems Exam preparation and wrap-up

Teaching methods will include a combination of lectures, interactive discussions, laboratory practicals, laptop-based exercises, case study analyses, and group projects.

Quizzes (20%): Weekly short quizzes to reinforce key concepts Assignments (20%): Data interpretation and problem-solving exercises, including group work Final Exam (60%): Comprehensive test including data-based questions

Quality education, decent work and economic growth, industry innovation and infrastructure, Responsible consumption and production.