Ore Deposit Geochemistry, Hydrology and Geochronology unit (KEA709)

Hobart, Online

Introduction

This unit gives you an up-to date review of the theory and practice of geochemistry, hydrology and geochronology as applied in mineral exploration, environmental management and studies of ore deposit genesis. The unit provides a comprehensive introduction to the chemistry of surface waters and hydrothermal systems including metal solubility, mineral stability, and the use of stable and radiogenic isotopes as tracers of hydrothermal processes. Physical controls on hydrothermal fluid -flow and controls on fluid chemistry, which influence the types and locations of ore deposits are addressed, as are the geochemistry, metallogenesis and ore-forming potential of magmatic arcs. Various methods of dating mineralising events are explained. Advanced techniques for ore deposit footprint, vectoring and fertility studies are also introduced. The major assessment task for this unit requires you to provide a pyrite-bearing sample for analysis. Prior to the short course, a polished laser ablation mount is prepared for each sample, reflected light optical microscopy images acquired and a pyrite grain (or grain aggregate) selected for laser ablation ICPMS analysis. During the short course, the resultant LA-ICPMS trace element/lead isotopic maps of the pyrite are interpreted in terms of ore deposit type, location within the alteration halo, conditions of pyrite deposition and hydrothermal fluid chemistry. Ore Deposit Geochemistry, Hydrology and Geochronology is available as both an OPTIONAL unit in the Mastery block of the Master of Economic Geology degree or as one of three CORE OPTION capstone coursework units (two selected) that may be taken during the Research/Project block of the degree. 

Summary

Unit name	Ore Deposit Geochemistry, Hydrology and Geochronology
Unit code	KEA709
Credit points	25
College/School	Sciences and Engineering School of Natural Sciences
Discipline	Centre for Ore Deposit and Earth Sciences
Coordinator	Professor David Cooke
Delivered By
Level	Postgraduate

Availability

Location	Study period	Attendance options		Available to
Hobart	Spring
Online	Spring

Note

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Key Dates

Study Period	Start date	Census date	WW date	End date
Spring	01/11/2027	16/11/2027	02/12/2027	02/01/2028

* The Final WW Date is the final date from which you can withdraw from the unit without academic penalty, however you will still incur a financial liability (refer to How do I withdraw from a unit? for more information).

Unit census dates currently displaying for 2027 are indicative and subject to change. Finalised census dates for 2027 will be available from the 1st October 2026. Note census date cutoff is 11.59pm AEST (AEDT during October to March).

About Census Dates

Learning Outcomes

• Interpret hydrothermal ore deposits formed in different tectonic settings using geochemical and petrological data
• Explain physical controls on fluid flow in hydrothermal systems and their implications for mineral exploration strategies.
• Relate chemical controls on metal solubility (transport and deposition) in crustal fluids to mineral exploration strategies.
• Select samples and laboratory methods to determine the tectonic setting, age and/or chemical footprint of hydrothermal ore deposits
• Communicate geochemical and hydrological concepts, or research findings, to an audience of industry or academic peers

Fee Information

Field of Education	Commencing Student Contribution 1,3	Grandfathered Student Contribution 1,3	Approved Pathway Course Student Contribution 2,3	Domestic Full Fee 4
010703	$2,470.00	$2,470.00	not applicable

• Available as a Commonwealth Supported Place
• HECS-HELP is available on this unit, depending on your eligibility³
• FEE-HELP is available on this unit, depending on your eligibility⁴

¹ Please refer to more information on student contribution amounts.
² Please refer to more information on eligibility and Approved Pathway courses.
³ Please refer to more information on eligibility for HECS-HELP.
⁴ Please refer to more information on eligibility for FEE-HELP.

If you have any questions in relation to the fees, please contact UniConnect or more information is available on StudyAssist.

Please note: international students should refer to What is an indicative Fee? to get an indicative course cost.

Teaching

Teaching Pattern	This unit involves approximately 60 hrs of lectures and 25 hrs of practical classes (either in-person or live via Zoom) delivered in two week-long intensive bocks (Part 1: 6 days, part 2: 5 days). Additional work (readings and assignment work) is completed prior to, between and after the intensive study blocks.
Assessment	Assessment Task 1. Pyrite sample video post (5%)|Assessment Task 2. Pyrite project assignment (15%)|Assessment Task 5. Mass-balance exercise (15%)|Assessment Task 3. Oral presentation (20%)|Assessment Task 4. Practical Exercises (45%)
Timetable	View the lecture timetable | View the full unit timetable

Textbooks

Required	Required readings will be listed in the unit outline prior to the start of classes.

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