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Environmental Geochemistry (GEOL2405&3405, mid level)
How: In this hands on lecture and lab course we will use a mix of lecture, reading and group work to get to the heart of some of the most pressing environmental issues we face today. Environmental science happens outside and can be best approached by going where the questions are. We therefore will have a mandatory day-long field trip at the beginning of the semester where you will collect samples for your project. The other lab meeting times you will spend in an actual environmental biogeochemistry and mineralogy lab where you will receive training in lab methods and learn how to accurately and safely work on your research project. You may also spend some time in the computer lab where you will use your own data to practice data analysis, generate meaningful visualizations and work on your presentation. You will also practice a lot of science-communication using hands on approaches.
Course goals:
When:This course is typically offered in Fall semesters.
Who: This course is approved to meet the following UVM Catamount Core requirements: N1 (GEOL2405, Natural Science without lab), N2 (GEOL3405, Natural Science with lab) and OC (Oral Communication). Prerequisite: A Catamount Core N1, N2, or MA course.
How: In this hands on lecture and lab course we will use a mix of lecture, reading and group work to get to the heart of some of the most pressing environmental issues we face today. Environmental science happens outside and can be best approached by going where the questions are. We therefore will have a mandatory day-long field trip at the beginning of the semester where you will collect samples for your project. The other lab meeting times you will spend in an actual environmental biogeochemistry and mineralogy lab where you will receive training in lab methods and learn how to accurately and safely work on your research project. You may also spend some time in the computer lab where you will use your own data to practice data analysis, generate meaningful visualizations and work on your presentation. You will also practice a lot of science-communication using hands on approaches.
Course goals:
- apply your understanding of
- clay characteristics (charge, size, specific surface are) to explain their application in nuclear waste storage.
- organic contaminant characteristics (KOW, solubility, volatility) to explain their fate in the environment.
- redox geochemistry to explain fate and mobility of contaminant metals (especially Arsenic) in ground water.
- equilibria between CO2, aqueous species and solid carbonates (calcite) to explain ocean acidification.
- Collect samples and perform selected geochemical analyses in the lab independently and safely using standard operation procedures.
- As a group synthesize your findings into a scientific presentation and communicate to a non-science audience.
When:This course is typically offered in Fall semesters.
Who: This course is approved to meet the following UVM Catamount Core requirements: N1 (GEOL2405, Natural Science without lab), N2 (GEOL3405, Natural Science with lab) and OC (Oral Communication). Prerequisite: A Catamount Core N1, N2, or MA course.
