Applications of isotopes of heavy elements (e.g., Ca, Mg, Fe, Zn, Li and K) have flourished in the last two decades mainly with the advancement of mass spectrometry. Applications of ‘non-traditional stable isotope systems’ are wide-ranging: they are being used as proxies for both low and high-temperature terrestrial and extra-terrestrial processes. Additionally, they are being used in the bio-medical field. This course is primarily focused on the principle, analytical methods, and applications of non-traditional stable isotopes of various elements towards understanding a wide range of research problems
History of radioactivity, Origin of elements, Radioactive decay mechanism, Applications of stable isotopes and both short-lived and long-lived radiogenic isotopes to understand natural processes on Earth's surface and deep interior. Isotope systems that are discussed in the class include stable C-O-S, short-lived Hf-W, long-lived Rb-Sr, Sm-Nd, Lu-Hf and noble gas
This course deals with the overall physiographic layout of the Indian subcontinent. Development of Archean cratons, formation of Proterozoic sedimentary basins in India, Amalgamation and subsequent rifting of Gondwanaland, Phanerozoic volcanic activities (e.g., Rajmahal and Deccan volcanism) and related catastrophe (e.g., mass extinction of Dinosaurs and other organisms), emergence and evolution of Himalayan mountain, evolution of Indo-Gangetic plains etc.
This course covers the basic principles and applications of Geochemistry: Electronic structure of atoms, Periodic table, Chemical bonds, Thermodynamics, Trace element geochemistry and their applications in Earth Sciences, Fundamentals of Stable and Radiogenic isotope geochemistry and their applications, Geochronology
Volcanic eruptions are one of the principal activities that directly modify Earth’s surface. Volatile emissions associated with volcanism not only cause severe hazardous issues, but they also replenish and maintain our atmosphere. Volcanism also plays a significant and critical role in forming economically exploitable mineral resources. Therefore, volcanic phenomena directly or indirectly influence many subdisciplines (geochemistry, economic geology, atmospheric sciences, etc.) of Earth Sciences and directly affect the living being on Earth. Consequently, a basic understanding of how volcanoes work and how they contribute to the Earth system would provide valuable knowledge to any student in Earth Sciences.