Geochemistry of The Earth System

Period: Second semester

Course unit contents: 

Introduction to geochemistry. Distribution of elements in the main Earth reservoirs (crust, mantle, oceans, atmosphere) and the principles governing their partitioning and mobility.
Biogeochemical cycles of essential elements (nitrogen, phosphorus, sulphur, etc.): reservoir–flux models, steady state and natural and anthropogenic perturbations. Processes regulating the transport and stability of these elements within the Earth system and the concept of planetary boundaries.
Methods and techniques for environmental geochemical analysis (solid, liquid and gaseous matrices), data interpretation and applications.
Contaminants and emerging contaminants. Role of clay minerals and organic matter in the mobility and speciation of elements.
Water–rock interaction. Discussion of processes and dynamics governing the interaction between contaminants and substrates.
Aerosols: physical classification, chemical composition, transport, interactions with other reservoirs, and the role of aerosols in global geochemical cycles.
Three seminar activities with experts in the field, who will share their experience on selected topics discussed during the course.
Impact of anthropogenic activities on global geochemical cycles and the dynamics of surface reservoirs. Discussion of some in situ soil (and water) remediation methodologies for selected contaminants covered in the course.

Planned learning activities and teaching methods: The course is organized in lectures. During the lessons, powerpoint files with images and diagrams are used. The teaching is interactive, with questions and presentation of case studies, to promote discussion and critical thinking among students.

In addition to contacting the course instructor, students with disabilities, Specific Learning Disorders (SLD), Special Educational Needs (SEN), and other health conditions can reach out to the Student Services Office - Inclusion Unit to receive more information about opportunities to access teaching with specific support and tools.