JHU-L2 LOI and Charcoal data next to the sediment core
This week was the last week of my time working at the University of Arizona and in Tucson, and I finished all the charcoal samples for the sediment core (JHU-L2), and started doing LOI for JOG-1A, a new sediment core.
On my last work day, Thursday, I graphed all the data I had gathered from JHU-L2 alongside a picture of the core for comparison. Its a nice picture that sums up most of my work since I got here about a month ago. Garrison also taught me how to go from first phase grain-size into second phase grain-size, which is done by spinning 36 vials inside of a centrifuge that spins at at 4800 rpm.
The centrifuge
After spinning it at this speed for eight minutes, I was able to dump out all the water without any grains being lost (all the grains were stuck to the bottom), and then I filled each vial with 6 to 7 ml of 30% hydrogen peroxide. In order to get the reaction between the hydrogen peroxide and the organic matter in the grain-size sample, I vortex-ed the vials using a machine which would shake my hand and the vial very violently and quickly.
I will most definitely be doing internships in college, and this internship has helped me narrow down what I will be focusing on during college and graduate school. Overall, this opportunity was a very worth-while experience, and I learned a lot while at it.
Thank you to my coworkers, host family, my family, and everyone at Pinhead for making this happen.
You are on your way to your PhD if you can sit in a lab that long. It takes a special talent and person. Well wishes to you in your future endeavors. I have enjoyed your posts every week. Safe travels home to the crisp, clean and blue air of Telluride.