Courses: GEOF236 Chemical Oceanography - Spring 2017




Language of Instruction

English

Teaching semester

Autumn

Objectives and Content

This course gives a basic introduction to chemical oceanography and useful methods applied within analytical work and modelling to interpret the distribution of substances and identifying processes causing their distribution. Focus is placed both on the natural and anthropogenic system of the general carbon cycle and other important processes causing changes in biogeochemical cycles and earth systems. Some central topics are the general circulation of the ocean (the thermohaline circulation), biological production, remineralisation and export of organic material. Radiometric and stable isotope distribution used for aging purposes of water masses and to identify source waters, calculation of mixing rates and advection of chemical component etc. Air - Sea gas exchange, the biological pump, nutrient cycles (nitrogen, phosphorous and silica cycle) will also be central topics.

Learning Outcomes

After completing this subject the student should be able to:

- calculate the uptake of carbon both in a natural and anthropogenic air and sea system based upon analytical and model data
- work on and systemize chemical oceanographic data in order to identify underlying processes that determine the general distribution of chemical substances
- determine how the biological pump influence the distribution of chemical substances in the ocean based on stoichiometry
- identify processes that are important for air-sea exchange
- measure and interpret experimental data and summarize results in a short laboratory report
- interpret results based on modelling in a short report 

Required Previous Knowledge

Principles of oceanography, as in GEOF105 Physics of the Atmosphere and Ocean. Principles of chemistry is an advantage.

Compulsory Assignments and Attendance

Exercises and laboratory courses. (Valid for four semesters: The semester mandatory activities have been approved and the three following semesters.)

Forms of Assessment

Oral exam. If more than 15 students exam might be written.

Grading Scale

The grading scale used is A to F. Grade A is the highest passing grade in the grading scale, grade F is a fail.

Contact Information

studierettleiar@gfi.uib.no