Acquisition of X-Ray Diffractometry Equipment for Undergraduate Instruction

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The Department of Geology, Geography, and Environmental Studies at Calvin College will purchase a Philips APD-3520 X-ray diffraction system. Training in the principles and application of X-ray diffraction has been an important component in most undergraduate geology curricula for many years. The acquisition of an XRD system will benefit primarily upperclass majors in the geology program. Students in mineralogy, optical mineralogy, and petrology will learn through hands-on experience the basic concepts and techniques of XRD and will practice such fundamental applications as identification of minerals, characterization of cell parameters, and determination of chemical composition of solid solutions. The overall effect will be much improved understanding of crystalline solids in Calvin's geology curriculum. The college will match the award with an equal amount of funds.