Explore the fascinating journey of copper from the Earth's mantle to porphyry deposits in this 58-minute lecture by Professor Cin-Ty Lee from Rice University's Geology Department. Delve into the critical role of Earth sciences in supporting the transition to renewable energies by understanding mineral exploration. Discover how geological processes work together to scavenge and concentrate trace metals over vast distances into small ore deposits. Examine the interplay of tectonics, magmatism, and erosion in subduction zones and their influence on magma evolution and copper concentration. Gain insights into the formation of copper porphyry deposits and the importance of critical metals in supporting expanded electrical grids and energy storage systems.