Utah Rocks – Elemental composition and climate evolution

X-ray florescent (XRF) involve the bombardment of x-rays onto an object with the goal of dislodging inner electrons from the electron shells of the individual elements. By measuring the energy emitted by the subsequently de-exciting electrons, in the form of characteristic x-rays, the elemental composition can be determined. The technology in this area has had major breakthroughs in recent years allowing these detectors to become smaller to the point where a detector can be a handheld device. The newfound portability of XRF devices has allowed them to be used in an even wider array, from determining lead contents in human bones to determining if a site has the potential to be profitable for mining. XRF detectors can also be used in determining the evolution of a climate based on the accumulation of different elements within each layer of sedimentary rock. The reading of different element concentrations within sedimentary rock determines the environment present during the formation of that layer. Preliminary data regarding the evolution of Utah climate will be presented.