Peeking into planetary interiors using spectroscopy

Planets; Spectroscopy; High-pressure; Diamonds

Research Mentor: Abhisek Basu,
Department, College, Affiliation: Earth, Ocean, and Atmospheric Science, Arts and Sciences
Contact Email: abasu@fsu.edu
Research Assistant Supervisor (if different from mentor):
Research Assistant Supervisor Email:
Faculty Collaborators:
Faculty Collaborators Email:

Looking for Research Assistants: Yes
Number of Research Assistants: 2
Relevant Majors: Open to STEM majors.
Project Location: On FSU Main Campus
Research Assistant Transportation Required:
Remote or In-person: In-person
Approximate Weekly Hours: 10, Flexible schedule (Combination of business and outside of business. TBD between student and research mentor.)
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link: Not participating in the Roundtable

Project Description

The chemical composition and possible reactions within the deep interiors of the planets are of vital importance and can provide us with an understanding of their physical, thermal, and magnetic properties. However, the planetary interiors are inaccessible to mankind and the only way to understand the processes is to perform laboratory-based experiments. In our laboratory, we are interested in probing the depths of the planets by measuring geologically important mineral properties at various pressures [P], and temperatures [T]. To generate P corresponding to planetary interiors we use diamond anvil cells (DAC), where the sample is compressed between two diamond anvils. Additionally, the compressed sample within the DAC is heated resistively to simulate the T conditions found inside planets. The sample at this P, T conditions inside the DAC is then probed using various light scattering studies like X-ray diffraction and Raman spectroscopy. In this project, the student will be trained in using DAC and an in-house Raman and Infrared spectrometer. Additionally, the student will get exposure to advanced research by performing a detailed literature review.

Research Tasks: Literature review; experimental design; data collection and curation; data analysis; report writing.

Skills that research assistant(s) may need: Required: Curiosity to explore research problems; eagerness to learn new techniques
Recommended: analytical skills; good writing skills;