Geochemistry
Geochemistry, the application of the science of chemistry to the study of the earth. The most important work of the geochemist is geochemical prospecting—the search for mineral and petroleum deposits. In this work, the geochemist analyzes the soil, water, and plants for traces of minerals or petroleum. The traces vary from place to place, pointing in complicated ways to the probable location of the mineral lode or petroleum deposit.
Geochemists also study radioactivity in ancient rocks to determine their ages.Some geochemists analyze meteorites for clues to the chemical composition of the solar system.
Geochemistry has developed as a separate science largely since 1950. Many of the geochemists in the United States are employed by the U.S. Geological Survey. Others are employed by petroleum and mining companies.