Geochronology: Decoding Earth’s Past to Shape Its Future
At Carnegie Science, we are at the forefront of geochronology research, pioneering new techniques to unlock Earth’s deep history and its implications for what lies ahead. Meet Andrea Giuliani, an isotope geochemist who is uncovering new ways to locate rare metals essential for clean energy, and Jennifer Kasbohm, a self-described "Earth historian," who is reconstructing the timeline of Earth’s most extreme volcanic events and tectonic shifts.
Watch the video below to learn more about their research and how geochronology helps us understand our planet’s deep history:
What Is it
Geochronology allows scientists to determine the ages of rocks and geological processes by analyzing the chemical composition of minerals. These natural "rock clocks" record the timing of major planetary events—sometimes stretching back billions of years.
Think of timekeeping in a 100-meter dash versus a marathon. Each requires a different clock to measure time with the right level of precision. Similarly, geochronologists use specialized dating techniques to capture both fleeting events and vast geological eras, revealing Earth's history in remarkable detail.
One powerful tool in geochronology is laser ablation, a technique that vaporizes microscopic bits of rock for analysis. Giuliani applies this method to study minerals in ancient mantle rocks, tracing their evolution over immense timescales.
For even more refined dating, high-precision geochronology isolates key isotopes from mineral samples. Using this approach, Kasbohm revised the timeline of a major volcanic event in the northwestern U.S., showing that it lasted 800,000 years—far shorter than the previously estimated 2 million years.
Why It Matters
Understanding Earth’s history isn’t just about looking back—it’s about getting ready for what comes next. At Carnegie Science, we are using geochronology to tackle some of the most pressing global challenges, from climate change and geological hazards to natural resource exploration.
For example, rare metals are essential for renewable energy technologies, such as wind turbines and electric vehicles. Giuliani uses geochronology to trace how these metals form, refining exploration methods to locate deposits more efficiently, supporting the transition to clean energy.
Geochronology also sheds light on how our planet has bounced back from rapid changes. By reconstructing past climate shifts and tectonic upheavals, Kasbohm provides critical insights into the forces shaping Earth’s future, helping us better predict and adapt to environmental changes.
From reconstructing our planet’s dynamic history to uncovering the materials that will power clean energy, geochronology is a key to bridging Earth’s complex past with our collective future.
