Introduction of Harold Clayton Urey for the V.M. Goldschmidt Medal

Abstract

This presentation of the V. M. Goldschmidt Medal is to Harold Clayton Urey. The previous recipients of this award were Paul W. Gast and H. E. Suess. The range in age of the recipients is very great and covers a wide range of achievements which are all fundamental to the science of geochemistry. The award to a younger man such as the late Paul W. Gast can be associated with particular accomplishments over his short career. The award to H. E. Suess recognizes a highly imaginative career with many accomplishments, one of which was done jointly with Urey. The present award to Harold C. Urey reflects a distinguished and lengthy career that covers the whole development of modern geochemistry. It is sometimes not clear whether an award is to honor the recipient or the society making the award. In this case it does not matter. It is simply unreasonable to have an award in geochemistry in this era which is not associated in some way with Urey.