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Geochemistry and Petrology

The chemical composition and formation of rocks and minerals, including igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary processes, isotope geochemistry, and the cycling of elements through Earth systems

5 papers in this specialization

Paperzilla Papers in Geochemistry and Petrology

Redox-driven mineral and organic associations in Jezero Crater, Mars

The Perseverance rover found organic molecules and intriguing mineral formations in Jezero Crater, suggesting possible past redox reactions involving organic matter. More research is needed to confirm if these reactions were biological or abiotic, and samples will be returned to Earth for detailed analysis.

Iron-mediated organic matter decomposition in humid soils can counteract protection

This research demonstrates that iron's role in soil carbon cycling is not simply protective. While iron can initially shield plant-derived carbon by forming mineral complexes, this protection is reversible and can be outweighed by iron-driven decomposition processes, especially in oxygen-fluctuating environments. This nuanced understanding of iron-carbon interplay is critical for accurate predictions of soil carbon storage and its response to changing climate conditions.

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s41467-020-16071-5.pdf

Jul 14, 11:03 AM

Diatomaceous Earth: Characterization, thermal modification, and application

This study characterized diatomaceous earth (DE) from the Mariovo region in North Macedonia, finding it to be primarily amorphous opal with minor crystalline phases. Upon heating, the opal transforms into cristobalite, with potential for forming mullite at higher temperatures, highlighting DE's potential for various ceramic and other industrial applications.

Evapotranspiration depletes groundwater under warming over the contiguous United States

The study found that warming temperatures increase evapotranspiration, leading to groundwater storage losses across the US, with the eastern US being more sensitive due to shallower groundwater and higher initial water availability. This highlights the importance of groundwater in mediating hydrologic responses to climate change and the need to incorporate subsurface storage dynamics in future projections.

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s41467-020-14688-0.pdf

Jul 14, 11:03 AM

In-depth study of bio-oil and biochar production from macroalgae Sargassum sp. via slow pyrolysis

Slow pyrolysis of Sargassum sp. produced bio-oil rich in carboxylic acids, furans, and hydrocarbons, alongside biochar with a high carbon content suitable for fuel. The pyrolysis reaction followed Arrhenius behavior, and the biochar showed a porous structure with a higher surface area than the original seaweed.