Mineral Exploration I - Geological and Geochemical

At the end of this course, the students should be able to: 1. determining the mode of occurrence and factors controlling ore deposition; 2. explain the sequence of mineral or ore search by reconnaissance, prospecting and detailed exploration; 3. identify and select geological methods of mineral and ore exploration; 4. identify applicable geological sampling techniques; 5. state geological data type, their processing, analysis and presentation; 6. apply the concept of geochemistry as indicators of mineral presence; 7. determine applicable geochemical surveying, principles and methods of exploration; 8. apply elements mobility and dispersion patterns for mineral search in geochemical environment; 9. state geochemical data type, acquisition techniques, processing and presentation; and 10. select appropriate procedures for geological and geochemical exploration.

Relative abundance, classification and distribution of elements in the cosmic system (lithosphere, hydrosphere and atmosphere). Mode of occurrence and factors controlling ore deposition. Concepts of ore search: reconnaissance, prospecting and detailed exploration by geological, geochemical and geophysical techniques. Geological exploration - zoning, pitting, trenching, drilling and remote sensing. Drill-hole section and plan interpretation methods of core logs. Geological data representation, presentation and interpretation. The concept of geochemistry. Geochemical environments and distribution of major and trace elements in primary and secondary geochemical environments. Geochemistry of different rock types and mineral deposits. Geochronology, weathering of major rock and geochemical implications. Dispersion patterns and mobility of elements. Geochemical cycles of some major elements. Geochemical surveying, principles and methods of exploration. Geochemical sampling media, field operations, sample collection, preparation and analytical procedures. Data processing, presentation and interpretation (map preparation). False anomaly: description, causes and remedy. Principles of major and trace elements analysis. Introduction to the use of relevant computer packages for data analyses and graphical presentation.