THE DISTRIBUTION OF RUBIDIUM IN CERTAIN IRON FORMATIONS

Abstract

The determination of the trace alkali metal, rubidium, has always been of importance geochemically. Data concerning its abundance relative to other elements in the earth’s crust have relevance to problems concerning fractionation in the earth’s crust. In this study, the distribution of rubidium in certain iron formations from the Superior and Churchill Provinces of the Canadian shield was studied. An attempt was made to determine the site and history of this element in these rocks by examining its abundance and behaviour relative to other elements and by inference from known geological processes.