Automated Particle Size Analysis: Addition of Detailed Sediment Analysis to the Geology Curriculum

贝茨将购买自动化沉积学实验室设备：一台Micromeritics Sedigraph 5100和ibm兼容的个人电脑和软件。该设备将用于分析在入门地质学、沉积学、冰川学和第四纪地质学课程的协调实地/实验室练习中回收的细粒沉积物样品，并用于独立的学生研究。该设备允许快速和详细的粒度分析，数据减少和分析结果的图形呈现，以最小的时间支出和样品制备。沉积物的粒度分布通常是风、水或冰川赋予物质的基本能量的函数。因此，沉积物粒度分析是沉积地质学家用来帮助确定沉积过程或沉积环境的关键描述工具。贝茨学院地质学课程的学生通过实地考察介绍性和更高级的课程、强化短期课程和高级论文研究来了解这些过程和环境。自动沉积物分析将加强地质学系现有的课程和设施。此外，新设施将向学生介绍现代沉积学技术，使他们能够对地质材料进行更详细和准确的分析。该学院正以等额的资金配合助学金。

Bates will purchase automated sedimentology lab equipment: a Micromeritics Sedigraph 5100 and IBM-compatible personal computer and software. This equipment will be used in the analysis of fine-grained sediment samples recovered in coordinated field/lab exercises in introductory geology, sedimentology, glacial and Quaternary geology courses, and in independent student research. This equipment allows rapid and detailed particle size analysis, data reduction and graphic presentation of analytical results with a minimum of time expenditure and sample preparation. Grain size distribution of sediments is often a function of the basic energy imparted to materials by wind, water, or glaciers. Hence, the analysis of grain size of sediment is a critical descriptive tool used by sedimentary geologists to help to fingerprint depositional processes or environments of deposition. Students in geology curriculum at Bates Collge are introduced to these processes and environments through field work in introductory and more advanced courses, intensive short term courses and senior thesis research. Automated sediment analysis will enhance the existing curriculum and facilities in the geology department. In addition, the new facility will introduce students to modern sedimentological techniques and allow them to conduct more detailed and accurate analyses of geologic materials. The college is matching the grant with an equal amount of funds.