Abstract
This chapter presents an overview of inorganic geochemistry as it is used in paleoclimate studies using peat and lake sediments. A brief look at the important dynamics occurring in lakes and mires highlights the fact that we are examining small scale processes to deduce large scale changes. Analytical techniques including sample preparation and instrumentation are summarized and important statistical and interpretive tools are explored. Specific examples from recent publications demonstrate the practical application of these tools and the kind of paleoclimatic interpretations that can be drawn from them.