Chemical element - Magmatism, Sedimentation, Metamorphism

chemical element

Table of Contents

Introduction
General observations
Historical development of the concept of element
The atomic nature of the elements
- The structure of atoms
- The existence of isotopes
Origin of the elements
- Cosmic abundances of the elements
  - Stars and gas clouds
  - Cosmic rays
  - Solar system
  - Summary of observations
- Processes producing heavier elements
  - Reaction stages reflecting increasing temperature
    - Hydrogen burning
    - Helium burning
    - Carbon and oxygen burning
    - Silicon burning
    - Reversible nuclear reaction equilibrium
  - Neutron capture
- Regions of element synthesis
  - Element production in the universe as a whole
  - Element production in stars
  - Element production in massive objects
- Radioactive chronologies
Geochemical distribution of the elements
- Terrestrial distribution
  - The Earth’s core
  - The Earth’s mantle
  - The Earth’s crust
    - Igneous rocks
      Major components
      Elements of minor and trace abundance
    - Sedimentary rocks
    - Metamorphic rocks
    - Ore deposits
    - Mineral fuels
    - Soils
  - The hydrosphere
    - Composition of seawater
    - Circulation of water through the hydrosphere
    - Geochemical balance of seawater over time
  - The atmosphere
    - Composition
    - Geochemical history
- The geochemical cycle
  - Early history of the Earth
  - Results of magmatism, sedimentation, and metamorphism

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The differentiation of the crust from the mantle and core permits consideration of the outer part of the Earth as a distinct geochemical system. The distribution and migration of the elements within the crust (and in the hydrosphere and atmosphere) are the results of processes of magmatism, sedimentation, and metamorphism. The fate of an element during magmatic crystallization is primarily a function of its ionic size. If of appropriate size it enters the structure of one or other of the major minerals; otherwise, it tends to remain in the magmatic liquid until its concentration increases sufficiently for it to form ...(100 of 18829 words)

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