Recap of the VT Geosciences booths:
Title: "Shelling Out the Shapes: The Incredible World of the Mollusca Phylum"
Abstract: This exhibit demonstrates the amazing diversity of marine creatures from the important phylum— the Mollusca. Explore the wide variety of shapes and colors of calcium carbonate skeletons that are made by many, but not all, of these organisms. The biogeochemistry research group in the Department of Geosciences investigates the biochemical processes that control how biomineralized structures are formed. In this remarkable collection you will experience the many shapes and sizes of mollusks from around the globe!
Hosted by: Department of Geosciences, Biogeochemistry of Earth Processes Group
The Biogeochemistry of Earth Processes (bgep) group conducts interdisciplinary research into the physical basis for biomineral formation and the complex patterns of mineralization that are observed in modern and ancient organisms.
Title: "How Crystals Grow: An Interactive Illustration"
Abstract: Much like we use blocks to build fantastic shapes and structures, nature uses its own building blocks to make the crystals that we see in rocks and in skeletal structures. What better way to demonstrate this wonderful occurrence than with Lego blocks! This exhibit shows a “zoomed-in” view of a growing crystal face that is made of Legos and explains the step-by-step process that occurs as the crystal grows— and how a crystal dissolves! Students can “grow” their own crystals by playing with the different pre-made examples. Come to learn and play with geology on the nanoscale!
Hosted by: Department of Geosciences, Biogeochemistry of Earth Processes Group
The Biogeochemistry of Earth Processes (bgep) group conducts interdisciplinary research into the physical basis for biomineral formation and the complex patterns of mineralization that are observed in modern and ancient organisms.
Title: "Ocean Acidification: Dangerous Changes in Earth's Seas"
Abstract: In this activity you will learn about the pH of the ocean and why humans should be concerned that the oceans are becoming more acid. By testing the pH of different liquids, you will learn the concept of acidity and understand why the rising level of carbon dioxide in atmosphere is making the oceans more acid. This may be dangerous for the ocean’s inhabitants that make their skeletons of calcium carbonate. Explore how changing environments may affect the production of biominerals worldwide.
Hosted by: Department of Geosciences, Biogeochemistry of Earth Processes Group
The Biogeochemistry of Earth Processes (bgep) group conducts interdisciplinary research into the physical basis for biomineral formation and the complex patterns of mineralization that are observed in modern and ancient environments.
Title: "Turning and flipping: How to find point symmetry in minerals"
Abstract: Have you ever noticed how ceiling tiles are laid out in repeating patterns, how your body looks the same on both sides or how mineral crystals in museums have complex but beautiful and equal shapes? These are a few simple examples of symmetry in our everyday world! This exhibit shows you how to identify symmetry and the different types of symmetries that are observed in nature. By building two types of polyhedra and 'decorating' them with different kinds of symmetry, you will learn how to find and identify 'elements of symmetry'. You will also learn the types of symmetry that are in specific molecules and in minerals. Build two types of symmetry elements to take home and learn how these polyhedra also represent how atoms are assembled to form crystals!
Hosted by: Department of Geosciences, Mineralogy and Petrology Group
The Mineralogy and Petrology group conducts interdisciplinary research on mineral formation and high-temperaure igneous and metamorphic rocks and processes.
Title: "Know Your Roots: Shells, Scales, and Skeletons"
Abstract: Come find out how you are related to a worm! At this exhibit, you will learn how all organisms on earth are connected by the tree of life. Are the wings of flies the same as those of eagles? Have you ever seen a tree eat mosquitos? What are the differences between seashells and dinosaur teeth? Some creatures have shells and others have bones made from very different crystals. Learn all about structures and skeletons we call biominerals, from large bones to microscopic shells!
Hosted by: Department of Geosciences, Biogeochemistry of Earth Processes
The Biogeochemistry of Earth Processes (bgep) group conducts interdisciplinary research into the physical basis for biomineral formation and the complex patterns of mineralization that are observed in modern and ancient organisms.
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