Biogeochemistry. (3-0) 3 Credit Hours

Catalog description

Prerequisite: GEO 1103 , GEO 1111 , CHE 1103 , CHE 1121 , and MAT 1093 , or consent of instructor. This course will provide theoretical and conceptual knowledge regarding important topics in biogeochemistry, including how elements are cycled in lithosphere, hydrosphere, and atmosphere, as well as discussing the impact of water and energy associated with these cycles. We follow the elements most necessary for life on earth from their origins in the universe through the present day and consider their future in a warming climate. Basic metabolic pathways of life and mechanisms of biogeochemical transformations of carbon, nitrogen, phosphorus, sulfur, and other weathering-derived elements are discussed. Biogeochemical processes associated with natural water chemistry (surface, groundwater, ocean water, and atmospheric waters - specifically wetlands, oceans, estuaries, soils, and sediments), will be covered with theory, case studies, and numerical calculations. A portion of class will also focus on interactions between natural organic matter and microbial processes that catalyze the cycling of elements of human health concern. Simple calculations using spreadsheet programs will be used to understand some of the biogeochemical processes in a quantitative manner. These Earth systems and processes are innately complex in nature. This course aims to support students' understanding of these systems through lecture, literature, and group assignments. Generally offered: Spring. This course has Differential Tuition.