Offered in odd numbered years.Week 1 face-to-face attendance option available.
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 | CODES ARC |
| Coordinator | Professor David Cooke |
| Delivered By | |
| Level | Postgraduate |
Sustainable Development Goals
The Unit Coordinator has identified that this unit aligns with the following UN Sustainable Development Goals. We welcome your thoughts and feedback on the alignment of the unit with these goals.
Availability
Specific information on 2027 unit availability will be available in August
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
2027 fee information will be available in August.
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. |
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| 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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The University reserves the right to amend or remove courses and unit availabilities, as appropriate.