How old is the earth? Andrew Barth (Igneous Petrologist, Indiana UniversityPurdue University Indianapolis, USA) uses zircons to find out. Zircons are microscopic (25100 µm), very dense, slightly radioactive minerals that are useful in radiometric dating. They were spawned by volcanoes and are very resistant to alteration. Andrew’s research will begin onshore using samples taken during Expedition 351. (Credit: Richard Arculus & IODP) [Photo ID: exp351_048] Back to expedition photos. |