James Cook University Subject Handbook - 2021

CH5041 - Environmental Chemistry

Subject Description

Chemistry of the natural environment. Atmospheric chemistry (ozone chemistry, aerosols), aquatic chemistry (marine, freshwater, groundwater), terrestrial (soils, clay minerals, humic matter), microbial redox chemistry (pE/pH diagrams) and interfacial chemistry (KF,KD). Biogeochemical cycles (N, P, S). Analytical chemistry. Techniques that are used in environmental monitoring of air, water and soils. Classical methods (gravimetry, titrimetry), chromatography (GC, HPLC, IC), spectroscopy (ND-IR, fluorescence, colorimetry, AA). Electroanalytical techniques. Sampling methods and quality control. Pollution chemistry. Nuclear and alternative energies, toxicology, greenhouse gases, smog, indoor air quality, water pollution, acid sulphate soils, persistent organics (DDT, PCB, dioxin), insecticides, herbicides, heavy metals (Pb, Hg), wastes and waste treatment.

Learning Outcomes

• explain the chemical principles involved in Environmental Chemistry via written and verbal reports. Simultaneously describe the aspects of chemistry inherent to the disciples of environmental, biological and earth sciences in the tropical context
• analyse and demonstrate through both written and oral communication, an understanding of the causes, effect and responses to environmental conditions, particularly pollution
• demonstrate the capacity to select and use instrumental and analytical techniques appropriate to environmental monitoring. Do this in both laboratory and field settings
• compile and analyse data to produce scientific reports that assess the quality of the physical environment

Subject Assessment

• Written > Examination (centrally administered) - (45%) - Individual
• Written > Test/Quiz 1 - (15%) - Individual
• Written > Essay (including multi-draft) 1 - (10%) - Individual
• Performance/Practice/Product > Practical assessment/practical skills demonstration - (30%) - Individual

Note that minor variations might occur due to the continuous subject quality improvement process, and in case of minor variation(s) in assessment details, the Subject Outline represents the latest official information.

Assumed Knowledge:  Students should have completed 1st year level chemistry subjects

Inadmissible Subject Combinations:  CH3041

Availabilities