Schreinemakers Analysis - Problem #1: Analysis of an Invariant Point (Py-Sp-En-Sil-Cd)

Dexter Perkins
,
University of North Dakota
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Summary

This is a standard Schreinemakers problem: identifying the sequence of stable and metastable reactions around an invariant point.

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Context

Audience

I use this in my Petrology class as either an in-class exercise or as homework. It is NOT simple for some students and, so, may be best done in a group.

Skills and concepts that students must have mastered

They need to know the basic Schreinemakers process and logic.

How the activity is situated in the course

My petrology class is a studio class and so group activities and in-class work are key. This is one of many exercises the students do during the semester.

Goals

Content/concepts goals for this activity

The goal is to get them to (1) be able to do a Schreinemakers analysis, and (2) understand the significance of invariant points and stable/metastable equilibria.

Higher order thinking skills goals for this activity

Logic and visualizations are keys to the success of the exercise.

Other skills goals for this activity

Description of the activity/assignment

This is a standard Schreinemakers problem: identifying the sequence of stable and metastable reactions around an invariant point.

Determining whether students have met the goals

There is only one -- plus the enantiomorph -- correct solution, so evaluation is simple.

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