Unit name | Soils and the Critical Zone |
---|---|
Unit code | EASC20037 |
Credit points | 10 |
Level of study | I/5 |
Teaching block(s) |
Teaching Block 2D (weeks 19 - 24) |
Unit director | Dr. Buss |
Open unit status | Not open |
Pre-requisites |
EASC10001 Geology 1 |
Co-requisites |
N/A |
School/department | School of Earth Sciences |
Faculty | Faculty of Science |
This unit is an introduction to the biology, mineralogy, chemistry and physics of soils, including how soils form and evolve, methods of soil classification, the global distribution of soil types, the diversity and role of macro- and micro-organisms in soils, and how moisture and heat move within soils. The unit takes a modern approach by placing soils in the integrated framework of critical zone science, wherein the entire portion of the terrestrial Earth that supports life (the critical zone) is viewed from a holistic perspective where compartments (such as soils) and their processes and interfaces are part of the whole system.
Key aims of the unit will be to learn the basics of soil science as listed above as well as the feedbacks between soil processes and other parts of the critical zone and the implications of these feedbacks for soil sustainability and functions, regional and global biogeochemical cycles, and climate feedbacks.
On successful completion of the unit, students will be able to:
15 lectures and 5 practicals
Coursework (40%) comprising problem sets and a 2,000 word essay, and 2 hour written exam (60%)
Essential (will be made available on Blackboard)
Recommended