Jinding mineDavid Symons, a pioneer in the field of paleomagnetic dating, will discuss the sources the world’s great deposits of zinc, lead and copper ore.

Paleomagnetic dating subject of public lecture

At the Science Café at 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday, June 19, David Symons will explain how one can use the changing magnetic field of ancient Earth to tell when sedimentary rocks were formed.

The method, which he has pioneered and refined over the past two decades, is particularly important for ore deposits that cannot be accurately dated by common methods of radiative dating and isotope analysis. Thanks to Dr. Symons’ paleomagnetic dating methods, it is now clear that most of the great world-class deposits of zinc, lead, and copper are related to massive underground hydrothermal fluid flows, triggered by mountain building or rifting events up to hundreds of kilometers away.

Symons is a professor emeritus in the Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences, where he established the paleomagnetic laboratory.

As usual at Science Cafés, light refreshments will be served and there is no admission charge. The evening is part of a series, sponsored by the Faculty of Science, discussing important science research for the general public. Canada South Science City is located at 930 Marion Avenue.