HELIUM

SEEd 8.4.1 Construct a scientific explanation based on evidence that shows that the uneven distribution of Earth’s mineral, energy, and groundwater resources is caused by geological processes.

1. 8th-grade students will construct a scientific explanation concerning the geologic processes that support the formation of helium deposits in Utah and the world.
2. High school chemistry students will develop solutions related to well drilling of helium, it’s conservation and utilization.
3. Students will focus on the geochemistry associated with nuclear decay that produces helium in granitic rocks and why drilling is used to recover the gas. A granitic rock is a common, coarse-grained, light-colored, hard igneous rock consisting chiefly of quartz used in monuments and for building and commonly referred to as granite.
4. Igneous rock is one of the three main rock types, the others being sedimentary and metamorphic. Igneous rock is formed through the cooling and solidification of magma or lava.