Course Syllabus
Synopsis
In the oceans, chemical, biological and physical processes interact in a complex and dependent way. This course specifically aims to give the basis of aquatic chemistry with a particular emphasis on greenhouse gases. The second part deals with the study of basic geochemical concepts requested for the interpretation of the geochemical signature of marine sediment records.
Aims
To provide an introduction to biogeochemical and ecological aspects of carbon, greenhouse, nutrients and chemicals in the marine environment, including biogeochemical modelling and particulate and dissolved exchanges.
Objectives
At the end of the Unit, you should:
- Understand the cycles of organic and inorganic carbon, organic and inorganic nutrients, and greenhouse gases in various marine ecosystems, and their relevance for climate regulation and climate change
- Understand the Chemical processes leading to formation of sedimentary rocks.
- Know how anthropogenic activities and climatic change impact on the sedimentary record.
Key Skills Acquired
At the end of the Unit, you should be able to:
- Conceptualize, parameterize and implement mathematical models of marine biogeochemical processes.
- Analyse and interpret geochemical signatures of marine sediments and geochemical datasets
Programme
- Cycles of organic and inorganic carbon, organic and inorganic nutrients, and greenhouse gases in various marine ecosystems.
- Chemical processes leading to formation of sedimentary rocks. Analyses of physical and chemical modifications through early diagenesis. Influence of kinetics and bacterial activity. Interstitial water. Cycle of metallic elements. Paleoceanographical tracers.
- Practicals: Analyses and interpretation of geochemical signatures of marine sediments. Treatment and interpretation of geochemical datasets. Use of excel software (a personal computer is requested).
Learning & Teaching (40 hr Th; 20 hr Pr)
- Lectures: 10x 2 hr = 20 hr (Part 1); 20 hr (Part 2)
- Practicals: 5 hr (Patrt 1) 20 hr (Part 2)
- Field work: 1 d (Part 2)
Teaching Staff
N Fagel (Coord.); A Borges
Semester: 1
Timetable slot: To be advised
ECTS: 6
Level: Optional
Bibliography
There are not published notes of course, but the students will have a copy of transparencies and scientific articles or reference works illustrating the taught theoretical concepts
Assessment
- Part 1: Written examination: 100%
- Part 2: Theory (70% of final quotation). Written examination on a selection of scientific publications (access to the reprints and document before the examination). TP – Written report of TP (30%).
Course Evaluation
By completion of University Unit Evaluation Questionnaire by students, annual assessment by Unit Co-ordinator. A full external review by the ULiège Academic Quality & Standards Commite.