Environmental Geochemistry

Recommended Prerequisites

Must have the 1º degree.  Basic knowledge of Geology, Mathematics and Chemistry. 

Teaching Methods

Theoretical is face-to face. Problems resolution. Field work. Laboratory demonstration.

Learning Outcomes

With this discipline the student 1) will acquire actualized knowledge of the pristine chemical composition of the major chemical reservoirs in the geochemical cycle; 2) will acquire actualized knowledge of the principal pollution and contamination agents; 3) identify the atmospheric, water and soil pollution, 4) recognize the environmental pollutes; 5) know how to sample, prepare samples and interpret the results from analysis .  6)learn to remediate the environmental impacts, especially those from old mine exploitations; 7) can define strategies to avoid pollution.  

Work Placement(s)

No

Syllabus

Introduction to Environmental Geochemistry: geochemical baseline, pollutant and contaminant; geochemical cycle and anthropic effects on the geochemical cycle; residence time. Point and diffuse sources. The geochemistry of the atmosphere: Composition and structure; sources and its characteristics; atmospheric pollutants and their effects. The geochemistry of continental environment: weathering (dissolution; oxidation-reduction and the mining activity; hydrolyse and hydration). Weathering rates. The clay minerals; colloids. Soils: its constituents and profile. Permeability, pH and redox potential; mobility of the chemical elements on soils. Soil contamination. Remediation. Study examples. Reference levels. Investigation methodologies. The effects of contamination. Continental waters geochemistry: characteristics, composition and controlling factors; Acidification. The biologic activity. Groundwater chemical characteristics. Water quality and pollution. Eutrophication.

Head Lecturer(s)

Joana Paula Machado Ribeiro

Assessment Methods

Assessment
Resolution Problems: 30.0%
Exam: 70.0%

Bibliography

 Andrews, J.E.; Brimblecombe, P; Jickells, T.D; Liss, P.S; Reid (2004) B.J. An introduction to Environmental Chemistry. (2º Edition)Blackwell publishing.

Brownlow, A.H. (2005). Geochemistry. Prentice-Hall, Inc..

Harrison, R.M. (2006). Understanding our environment: an Introduction to Environmental Chemistry and Pollution. The Royal Society of Chemistry.

Jackson, A.R.W. and Jackson, J.M. (2005). Environmental Science. The natural environmental and human impact. Prentice Hall.

Krauskoff, K.B. and Bird, D.K. (1995). Introduction to Geochemistry. McGraw-Hill international editions.

Apontamentos coligidos pela Professora.