Earth and Environmental Chemistry - 2021 entry

A sound appreciation of chemistry is relevant for understanding the history of the Earth, the environment we live in, and the challenges we face. This module starts with an exploration of atomic structure, highlighting how atoms are classified in the Periodic Table of Elements. Different arrangements of atoms are reviewed, followed by a discussion of ways to make chemical composition and physical structure more readily observable. Fundamental concepts in chemistry as applied to the Earth Sciences, including thermodynamics, isotopes and organic chemistry, are also covered. The distribution of chemicals in natural systems is addressed, emphasising the role and types of chemical reactions in different spheres: the solar system, the Earth, rocks and aqueous environments. The lectures are supported by a programme of laboratory experiments.

- To introduce the concept of atoms and atomic structure;

- To review bonding of atoms in materials;

- To understand different types of chemical reactions;

- To discuss techniques for chemical analysis;

- To review fundamental principles of thermodynamics;

- To understand the role of isotopes in geochemistry;

- To clarify the role of chemistry in the history of the Earth;

- To understand the process of weathering;

- To discuss the effect of chemical transformations in aqueous environments;

- To gain experience with chemical laboratory practice.

On successful completion of this module, you should be able to:

Module Specific Skills and Knowledge:

1 Understand atomic structure, chemical bonding and thermodynamics;

2 Understand types of chemical reactions and chemical analysis;

3 Comprehend the role of chemistry in the evolution of rocks and waters;

4 Understand the role of isotopes in characterising geological processes;

5 Understand the role of chemical speciation and equilibrium in aqueous environments;

6 Know how to conduct and interpret laboratory experiments;

Discipline Specific Skills and Knowledge:

7 Appreciation of chemistry in understanding geology;

8 Appreciation of chemistry in understanding environmental issues;

Personal and Key Transferable/ Employment Skills and  Knowledge:

9 Develop analytical problem-solving skills;

10 Develop laboratory skills.

- Atomic structure;

- Periodic Table;

- Chemical bonding;

- Chemical Reactions: energy, kinetics, equilibria and thermodynamics;

- Phase diagrams;

- Isotopes in the Earth Sciences;

- Organic chemistry;

- Electrochemistry;

- Aqueous geochemistry;

- Chemistry of the Earth, rocks and the Oceans;

- Chemical weathering.

Basic reading:

ELE: http://vle.exeter.ac.uk/

Web based and Electronic Resources:

E-books (via University Library Catalogue):

Housecroft, C.E., Sharpe A.G., Inorganic Chemistry, 4^th Edition, Pearson Education (2012) eISBN: 978-0273742784

Reading list for this module: