Geochemistry

Geochemistry is that branch of science which uses the fundamental principles of Chemistry to understand, analyze and explain the mechanisms behind and working principles of major geological systems including the oceans as well as Earth's crust. But the scope of Geochemistry extends much beyond our planet earth and extends upto the solar system so much so that its contribution is immense in understanding important phenomena like formation of planets, origins of granite and basalt and mantle convection. The fascinating factor of Geochemistry is its position which is primarily in between exact sciences such as physics, chemistry and mathematics and that of natural sciences. The shape of the quantitative approach taken in physical chemistry, thermodynamics, analytical chemistry and mathematics to natural observation opens up uncharted territories and provides enormous advantages. These are neutralized, however, by the inevitable shortcomings that have to be faced when writing a script on geochemistry: and the most important of them is the need to summarize and apply quite often in a superficial and incomplete fashion, concepts that would require an entire volume if they were to be described with sufficient completeness and accuracy; Multiple diverse fields or areas provided base knowledge in development of contemporary ideas of Geochemistry. Following are some of these sub fields and things they deal with in particular: Cosmo Chemistry:- This deals with the detailed analysis of the distribution of elements and their various isotopes within the cosmos. Isotope Geochemistry: Involves a study of absolute and relative concentrations of elements and their isotopes in and on the surface of our planet earth The determination of the underlying system of movement and distribution of earth by thorough examination of distribution and movements of elements in the various parts of earth like that of crust, mantle, hydrosphere or in minerals. Organic Geochemistry is that field of Geochemistry that intends to understand the role of all the process and compounds that are received from life or living organisms that once lived. Biogeochemistry is the field of Geochemistry which primarily deals with the effect of life on the chemistry of our planet earth. Photo Geochemistry deals with the impact of light induced reactions that occur or may occur among the components available naturally on the surface of earth. Aqueous geochemistry studies the role of various elements in the watersheds including mercury, sulfur or even copper. This also studies the exchange of fluxes through aquatic, terrestrial and atmospheric interactions. Exploration geochemistry deals with the applications to environmental, mineral and hydrological exploration studies. Thus, it is seen that the scope and reach of Geochemistry extends much beyond the limits of our planet earth and is a necessary tool to understand our position in this universe and to formulate ways along with other disciplines of science in sustaining life for a long time to come.