This is an advanced course that explores the relationships between marine chemistry, marine biological and geochemical processes - with a focus on developing an understanding of the interplay and responses between ocean chemistry, marine biology and global change. Topics covered include the theory and application of chemical and isotopic tracers in oceanography and palaeoceanography, macro- and micro-nutrient cycling, sediment and suspended particulate interactions, element speciation, and biomineralization. Practical work will cover a range of standard and sophisticated laboratory methods for nutrients, elemental, isotopic and chemical speciation analysis, as well as a field sampling excursion to the South Coast of NSW.

On satisfying the requirements of this course students will have the knowledge and skills to:

1. Understand the chemical processes that influence carbon uptake by the ocean

2. Demonstrate an understanding of the processes involved determining the nutrient structure of the ocean

3. Undertake chemical analysis of water samples collected in the field setting

4. Describe the biogeochemical processes that influence compounds and organisms in the ocean in context of recent literature

A combination of theory examination, practical/laboratory assignments, an essay topic and/or a poster presentation.

• Practical/laboratory assignments (30% LO 2-3)
• Essay or Poster presentaion (30% (LO 1,2 and 4)
• Theory Examination (40% LO 1-4)

Students in the graduate version of this course (EMSC6023) will be required to demonstrate a more advanced understanding of the material in the assessment items.

A maximum of 26 hours of lectures/tutorials and 39 hours of laboratory and tutorial classes

Student should have a broad chemistry background

Prerequisite: CHEM1101 or equivalent

GEOL3023

Emerson, S. and J. I. Hedges (2008) Chemical Oceanography and the Global Carbon Cycle, Cambridge University Press, Cambridge, UK.