Geochemistry

Geochemistry

 General Framework of the Course

- Unit: UEM 411 – Fundamental Geochemistry

- Level: L2- LMD – Earth and Universe Sciences

- Teaching hours: Course 1h30 | Practical work 2h30

- Objective: Introduction to geochemistry fundamentals, isotopic geochemistry, and dating methods.

Chapter I – Introduction to Geochemistry

- Definition and objectives of geochemistry

- Historical background: Schönbein, Clarke, Vernadsky, Goldschmidt

- Main branches: cosmochemistry, isotopic geochemistry, hydrogeochemistry, biogeochemistry, environmental geochemistry

- Origin of chemical elements: nucleosynthesis

Chapter II – Classification of Chemical Elements

- Goldschmidt classification: lithophile, siderophile, chalcophile, atmophile elements

- Classification based on abundance: major, minor, and trace elements

- Periodic table and geochemical groups

- Classification based on condensation temperature

Chapter III – Laws of Element Distribution

- Major elements and trace elements

- Diadochic substitution

- Compatible and incompatible elements

- Partition coefficient (Kd)

Chapter IV – Geochemical Properties and Water Geochemistry

- Ionic potential (Z/r)

- Water–rock interaction: hydrolysis, dissolution, hydration, oxidation

- Element mobility (LILE and HFSE)

6. Chapter V – Radioactivity and Isotopic Geochemistry

- Radioactivity: laws and types

- Stable and unstable isotopes

- Applications in geochronology and absolute dating

Practical Work

- Absolute dating exercises

- Isotopic geochemistry applications

- Solid-state geochemistry

References

- Jambon & Thomas – Geochemistry: Geodynamics and Cycles

- Claude Allègre – Isotopic Geology

- Philippe Vidal – Geochemistry