ESCI 277 - Biogeochemistry

1 unit(s)

(Same as ENST 277) Our planet is uniquely suited in our solar system to support complex life. In turn, the engines of biology have altered Earth’s geochemistry in ways that have allowed for the development of higher animals and the establishment of a relatively stable climate system. How do Earth’s biology, chemistry, and geology work together to create the Earth System we know today? We explore major milestones in Earth’s History such as the oxygenation of the atmosphere, the colonization of the continents by land plants, and the advent of calcifying organisms. Lab and field activities give us insight into biogeochemical processes ranging in scale from global ocean carbon cycling to the impact of road salt on local river chemistry. In the process, we cement our understanding of biogeochemical cycles and how humanity is altering them today.

Prerequisite(s): ESCI 151/GEOG 151 or ESCI/ENST 153 or ENST 124 or permission of the instructor.

Two 75-minute periods; one 4-hour laboratory.

Not offered in 2023/24.

Course Format: CLS