This course introduces the fundamental principles of low-temperature geochemistry and biogeochemistry, from the origin of elements to the functions of earth systems. Chemical reactions, energetics and physics are used to explain elemental distributions within and redistribution among reservoirs of: rock, water, soils and the atmosphere over timescales from minutes to geologic eras. Geochemical and biogeochemical principles are applied to topics such as climate change; air, soil and water quality; chronology of human impacts on earth; and availability of mineral elements to the biosphere.
- Instructor: Theresa Adesanya