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Title
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Analyzing Core Samples
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Type
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Primary: Laboratory
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Operation
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Tectonic Fury
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Mission:
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Mission 3: Analyzing the Evidence
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Print Page
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73
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Subjects
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Science | Earth and space science | Earth materials | Rocks | Evolution | Geologic time | Science as inquiry | Science process skills | Analyzing data | Collecting data | Communicating | Interpreting data | Measuring | Modeling | Observing | Predicting | Scientific habits of mind | Using scientific equipment
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Grades
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5 | 6 | 7 | 8
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Keywords
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rock, layer, dating rock, relative dating, core sample, analysis, data, Dr. George Guthrie, carbon sequestration, prediction, observation, sampling
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Duration
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00:45:00 (HH:MM:SS)
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Audience
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Teachers | Elementary Grades | Junior High
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Created On
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5/7/2010
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From: Tectonic Fury Mission 3: Analyzing the Evidence (pp: 73) |
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Analyzing Core Samples In this lab, students will determine the structure of model rock layers by using only core samples. Then, from the core samples, they will try to determine the order in which these layers were formed. |
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When assessing potential areas for carbon capture and sequestration, Dr. Guthrie must take core samples to analyze the different layers of rock under the ground at that location. From these core samples, Dr. Guthrie and his team can determine the underground geologic structures they cannot see from the surface. Relative dating techniques can then provide further information to help identify specific layers that may be good candidates for carbon sequestration.
In this activity, your instructor will provide your group or class with rock layers to investigate. Your first challenge is to determine the structure of the rock layers by using only the core samples. Then, from the core samples, you will try to determine the order in which these layers were formed.
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| Lab Prep |
- Create your coring tool as indicated by your instructor.
- Label a grid on your rock layers as outlined in the data sheet. Label the grid with numbers on one side and letters on the other.
- Identify and document the locations on opposite sides of the rock layers where you will take core samples 1 and 2.
- Mark these locations on your data sheet.
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| Make Observations |
- Take core sample 1 by pressing the coring tool straight down and slowly rotating into the rock layers at your predetermined location. Make sure to press and rotate all the way to the bottom.
- Slowly remove the tool and examine the core. Use a ruler to measure the depth of each layer in millimeters. Record and draw your observations on the data sheet.
- Remove the core sample from the coring tool and take core sample 2 at the appropriate grid location.
- Determine which rock layer you think is the oldest, and which is youngest. Why?
- Based on the core samples, draw a prediction of what the area between the core samples might look like on your data sheet.
- To verify your prediction, use the coring tool to take two more samples, 3 and 4, locating them between samples 1 and 2. Document your results on the data sheet.
- Based on the data collected, revise your prediction on your data sheet.
- Use the coring tool to take two more samples, 5 and 6, within the rock layers. Document your results and revise your prediction as needed.
- Based on your observations, describe the sequence of events that may have formed these rock layers from oldest to newest.
- How would increasing the number of core samples taken in the rock layers affect your analysis?
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| Extension |
Gather materials and make your own rock layers. Trade it with another group and try to determine the rock layer structure using the coring tool.
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Journal Question
Describe what other information or methods of sampling would help you further develop the sequence of events that created the rock layers. |
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