Elemental fractionation refers to the process where different elements or isotopes are separated or partitioned into different phases or reservoirs due to physical or chemical processes. This phenomenon is crucial in fields like geochemistry and cosmochemistry for understanding the distribution and evolution of elements in natural systems, such as planetary differentiation and the formation of mineral deposits.

Elemental Fractionation

Different Elements

Different Isotopes

Physical Processes

Chemical processes involve the transformation of substances through chemical reactions, often resulting in the formation of new compounds with distinct properties. These processes are fundamental to numerous industries, including pharmaceuticals, energy, and materials science, and are governed by principles of thermodynamics, kinetics, and reaction mechanisms.

Chemical Processes

Geochemistry is the scientific study of the Earth's chemical composition and the processes that control the distribution and cycling of chemical elements and isotopes within the Earth and its atmosphere. It combines principles from chemistry and geology to understand the Earth's crust, oceans, and atmosphere, and plays a crucial role in resource exploration and environmental science.

Geochemistry

Cosmochemistry is the scientific study of the chemical composition of matter in the universe and the processes that led to those compositions. It provides insights into the formation and evolution of the solar system through the analysis of meteorites, interstellar dust, and cosmic rays.

Cosmochemistry

Distribution of elements

Evolution of elements

Natural systems are complex networks of biotic and abiotic components that interact in various cycles and processes, maintaining the balance and functioning of ecosystems. Understanding these systems is crucial for conservation efforts, sustainable resource management, and addressing environmental challenges such as climate change.

Natural Systems

Planetary differentiation is the process by which a planet becomes internally segregated into layers of different composition, typically resulting in a core, mantle, and crust. This occurs due to the heat generated by accretion, radioactive decay, and core formation, which causes melting and the separation of materials based on density.

Concepts

Relevant Degrees

Your Lessons