CHM112 Introductory Environmental Chemistry (8)

This subject extends the concepts introduced in Chemical Fundamentals and applies them to environmental systems, emphasis will be given to aquatic systems. Topics include equilibria, energy transformations, redox processes, kinetics of chemical and microbiological processes, nutrients and nutrient cycling, colloids and ion exchange processes.

No offerings have been identified for this subject in 2019.

Where differences exist between the Handbook and the SAL, the SAL should be taken as containing the correct subject offering details.

Subject Information

Grading System

HD/FL

Duration

One session

School

School of Agricultural and Wine Sciences

Assumed Knowledge
CHM108 or CHM104

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this subject, students should:
  • Understand the nature of ionic equilibria and be able to apply it to aquatic systems;
  • Understand basic thermodynamic principles and be able to utilise them in analysing environmental processes;
  • Be able to write and balance redox reactions, use the Nernst Equation and be able to apply it to natural systems;
  • Understand the fundamentals of kinetics and be able to interpret data from chemical and microbiological systems;
  • Understand the roles of oxygen and carbon dioxide in aquatic systems;
  • Understand the concept of nutrient cycling;
  • Have an appreciation of the importance of ion exchange, colloids, and particulate matter in natural systems.

Syllabus

This subject will cover the following topics:

Equilibrium in aquatic systems; Thermodynamic principles, energy transformations, heat in aquatic systems; Oxidation and reduction reactions, cell potentials, Nernst Equation, naturally occurring redox process and the pE concept; First and second order kinetic processes, half life, rate equations and their application to environmental systems; Oxygen in aquatic systems; Inorganic carbon transformations; Nutrients and nutrient cycling - nitrogen, phosphorus, sulfur and iron; Ion exchange processes in soil and water; Phase interactions in natural systems.

Residential School

This subject contains a 4 day Compulsory Residential School.

Contact

For further information about courses and subjects outlined in the CSU handbook please contact:

Current students

Future students

The information contained in the CSU Handbook was accurate at the date of publication: May 2019. The University reserves the right to vary the information at any time without notice.

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