SFI-32812 Global Biogeochemical Cycles

Vak

Studiepunten 12.00

Language of instruction:

English

Assumed knowledge on:

Introductory courses at BSc level in mathematics, chemistry, meteorology, hydrology, soil science and ecology

Continuation courses:

ESA-30804 Global Change

Contents:

- introduction: Biogeochemical cycles for studying the earth system and global change; - origin and early evolution of the earth;
- evolution and the biosphere;
- geomicrobiology (microbial transformations, microbial mediated oxidation-reduction, processes in aquatic and terrestrial environments, role of microbes in global biogeochemical cycles);
- oceanography;
- ocean biogeochemistry;
- global carbon cycle;
- nitrogen, sulfur, phosphorus and trace metal cycles;
- acid-base and oxidation-reduction balances of the earth;
- the coupling of biogeochemical cycles and climate forcings, feedbacks and responses;
- ice-sheets and the ice-core record of climate change;
- human modification of the earth system: global change;
- modeling biogeochemical cycles.

Aims:

Preceeding courses, both during BSc and MSc, usually focus on disciplinary process knowledge at ecosystem or sub-ecosystem level. This course aims to provide an integrated overview of biogeochemical cycles at global scale. Knowledge of biogeochemical cycles at different spatial and temporal scales provides a basis to study global change phenomena.

Activities:

- classroom teaching;
- geomicrobiological experiments;
- development of biogeochemical models.

Examination:

Regular exam and computer simulation assignments.

Literature:

Jacobsen, M.C., Charlson, R.J., Rodhe, H., Orians, G.H., 2000. Earth System Science: From biogeochemical cycles to global change. International Geophysics series volume 72. Academic Press, San Diego.