When investigators arrive at a crime scene, they quickly sweep the scene for clues. Analyzing these clues will help them begin to develop a story that answers important questions. When did this crime happen? Where did it happen? Who was involved? How did it occur? Guided by these questions and the clues they uncover, investigators can begin to solve a crime that they themselves did not see.
Evidence brought back to the crime lab can be further analyzed using technology, such as computers, to provide investigators with a more detailed story of what happened. As new evidence is found, better leads can be established, allowing investigators to revise their story of what happened. Hopefully, enough information can be gathered to solve the crime and close the case.
 | Carbon Capture and Sequestration Listen to Dr. George Guthrie explain the geologic settings of and potential locations for carbon capture and sequestration. |
| Carbon Dioxide Storage Discover how air and liquids flowing through rock can identify the rocks with the greatest potential for storing carbon dioxide. |
So, what do scientists and crime scene investigators have in common? They both use observational skills and technology to analyze clues to create, revise, and understand events that they did not see happen.
Using their observational skills and cutting-edge technology, Dr. Guthrie and his team are working to find suitable underground layers of rock to store carbon dioxide gas released from sources such as fossil fuel power plants. The collection and underground storage of carbon dioxide gas is called carbon capture and sequestration (CCS). Since some rock layers developed over millions of years, Dr. Guthrie and his team must apply their understanding of Earth's history to help locate the best potential sites.
Once a potential site is located, the team must analyze the physical and chemical properties of the layers of rock. They use technology, such as CT scanners, specialized flowmeters, and cutting-edge analytical techniques, to help determine if these rock layers are suitable for the job. If this research is successful, carbon dioxide gas can be stored safely underground instead of being released into the atmosphere, so that we may curb the effects of climate change.
Solving the case of Earth's history is important because of the effects humans can have on our environment. If future CCS sites are to be located, we must further unravel the mysteries of Earth's past.
Today, scientists continue to discover new fossils, rocks, and minerals. These clues are used to revise and further deepen our understanding of Earth's long history. And, as we develop new technologies, we can gain even more information from these clues about our planet's 4.5 billion year history.