Geochemistry and Geophysics (GCG)

Section Information

Geochemistry and Geophysics focuses on the chemical and physical processes that shape the Earth and other planetary bodies. It examines the composition, structure, dynamics, and evolution of the solid Earth, oceans, atmosphere, and extraterrestrial materials through integrated chemical, physical, and mathematical approaches.

Modern research in this field includes isotope geochemistry, mineral and rock chemistry, geochronology, seismic imaging, tectonophysics, geomagnetism, geodynamics, heat flow, and geophysical exploration. Advances in analytical instrumentation, remote sensing, numerical modeling, and laboratory simulations continue to deepen understanding of Earth systems and planetary processes.

This section publishes observational studies, laboratory analyses, field investigations, theoretical models, geochemical and geophysical datasets, reviews, and applied research addressing Earth's composition, physical behavior, resource exploration, environmental interactions, and planetary evolution.

Scope

Isotope and Elemental Geochemistry
- Radiogenic and stable isotope systems
- Trace element analysis and geochemical tracers
- Geochemical cycling in rocks, oceans, and the atmosphere
- Applications in hydrology, volcanology, and climate studies
Mineralogy, Petrology, and Geochemical Processes
- Mineral composition, structure, and thermodynamics
- Igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary processes
- Magma generation, differentiation, and volcanic systems
- Fluid–rock interactions, metasomatism, and diagenesis
Geochronology and Thermochronology
- Dating techniques including U–Pb, Ar–Ar, and radiocarbon
- Thermal history reconstruction and crustal evolution
- Provenance studies using isotopic and mineralogical tools
- Applications in tectonics, sedimentary basins, and landscape evolution
Seismology and Earth Structure
- Seismic waves, tomography, and crust–mantle imaging
- Earthquake physics, fault mechanics, and hazard analysis
- Seismic inversion and anisotropy studies
- Exploration seismology and subsurface characterization
Tectonophysics and Geodynamics
- Plate tectonics and lithospheric deformation
- Mantle convection, heat flow, and planetary thermal evolution
- Mountain building, rifting, subduction, and crustal processes
- Geodynamic modeling and numerical simulations
Geomagnetism and Gravity Studies
- Earth’s magnetic field, paleomagnetism, and magnetic anomalies
- Core dynamics and dynamo theory
- Gravity measurements, geoid modeling, and mass distribution
- Applications in tectonics, exploration, and Earth system studies
Planetary Geochemistry and Geophysics
- Composition and internal structure of planets, moons, and meteorites
- Planetary crusts, mantles, and surface processes
- Remote sensing and in situ analysis of planetary materials
- Comparative planetology and solar system evolution
Applied Geochemistry and Geophysical Exploration
- Geochemical prospecting and resource exploration
- Geophysical methods including electrical, magnetic, and gravity surveys
- Environmental geophysics and contamination assessment
- Energy, groundwater, and mineral resource evaluation