This grant, made through the Major Research Instrumentation (MRI) program, provides support for acquiring a microanalysis system for an existing scanning electron microscope at Carleton College. The addition of a energy dispersive spectrometer based microanalysis system will greatly enhance the research, research training, and educational capabilities in Geology, Chemistry, Physics, and Anthropology at the college. Microanalysis is an essential tool for characterizing the chemical composition of solid materials at the micron scale. Current student and faculty research that will be enhanced by the acquisition of a new microanalysis system include 1) metamorphic petrology and tectonic studies in Southeast and south central Alaska; 2) evolution of Yellowstone volcanism; 3) characterization of sedimentary layers in early hominid sites in eastern Africa; and 4) investigations into the processes that control biogeochemical rates and species diversity in simple, microbially-dominated ecosystems. In addition, the new microanalysis system will be used in various courses to enhance the quantitative reasoning skills of science and non-science majors at the college. ***

Agency
National Science Foundation (NSF)
Institute
Division of Earth Sciences (EAR)
Type
Standard Grant (Standard)
Application #
0420680
Program Officer
Russell C. Kelz
Project Start
Project End
Budget Start
2004-08-01
Budget End
2005-07-31
Support Year
Fiscal Year
2004
Total Cost
$92,420
Indirect Cost
Name
Carleton College
Department
Type
DUNS #
City
Northfield
State
MN
Country
United States
Zip Code
55057