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Drew Gorman-Lewis
General Science / Chemistry / Geology

Mark Reed, Mentor
Brian Rusk, Mentor

Fluid Inclusion Study of the Butte, Montana, Main Stage Vein System

The ore deposit of Butte, Montana has always interested geologists due to its complex geologic history and economic potential. The first step in understanding the geology is to recognize two major stages of fracturing and mineralization making up a huge porphyry copper system. Most of the mined ores have comefrom the late, large Main Stage veins and horsetail ore bodies. A thorough fluid inclusion study of the Main Stage provides us with a clear understanding of the environment of mineralization and the composition of the fluid that formed the veins.