Systematics of the main radiogenic isotope systems. Radiogenic isotopes as tracers for food provenance. Radiogenic isotopes in forensic studies. Pb isotopes and environmental pollution. U-series isotopes as tracers for radioactive pollution.
The aim of the course is to provide the students with the knowledge of the main radiogenic isotope systems and of their application in various environmental studies. The student will acquire the appropriate skills to evaluate the relationships between geological process and environment through the information arising from the isotopic ratios.
Teaching Methods
Total hours of the course (including the time spent in attending lectures, seminars, private study, examinations, etc...): 150
Hours reserved to private study and other individual formative activities: about 100
Lecture hours: 50. The course might feature practical exercise in the lab.
Type of Assessment
Oral examination with discussion of a scientific paper in English related to one or more topics dealt with during the course.
Course program
Laws of radioactive decay. Common isotopic systematics used in Environmental geology (Rb-Sr, Sm-Nd, U-Th-Pb Analitical and instrumental protocols (TIMS, MC-ICPMS); Radiogenic isotopes (Sr-Nd-Pb)and environmental geology; Radiogenic isotopes as tracers for food provenance. Radiogenic isotopes in forensic studies; Pb isotopes and environmental pollution; U-series isotopes as tracers for radioactive hazard and pollution.