Earth-Life Interactions

Objectives:

The course aims to give a broad introduction into the geochemical principles and research practices used to understand processes operating on, in and between Earth's various geochemical and geobiological systems (mantle, crust, oceans, atmosphere), and the role of life in such processes.

Content:

The course gives an introduction to fundamental geochemical methods and practices used in disciplines like aqueous biogeochemistry, petrology, trace element geochemistry and geomicrobiology. Beginning with the elements, and their distribution between Earth's reservoirs, this course discusses why and how geochemical reactions occur and give rise to global biogeochemical cycling between reservoirs, and the role of life in these interactions. These concepts will be developed and applied using a combination of local/regional fieldwork and student-active learning.

On completion of the course the student should have the following learning outcomes defined in terms of knowledge, skills and general competence:

Knowledge

The student

• can compare the composition of the Earth´s main geochemical reservoirs
• can use the behavior of chemical elements to identify and explain geochemical processes
• can distinguish between major and trace elements in rocks and aqueous systems
• can summarize what the main global element cycles are, and the most important processes that control these cycles
• can describe the carbonate system and its role in the global carbon cycle
• can explain how reaction equilibrium constants function
• can connect major microbial metabolisms with their distribution and geochemical impacts
• can evaluate the behavior of geochemical species considering major pH, redox and fluid-rock-microbiological processes

Skills

The student

• can quantify uncertainty associated with measuring parameters in geochemistry
• can compile and evaluate real geochemical data to develop conclusions
• can design and conduct simple fieldwork strategies for geochemical sampling
• can balance diverse geochemical reaction equations (redox, fluid-mineral)
• can use geochemical data to identify microbial habitats and niches

General competence

The student

• can effectively and ethically conduct fieldwork, sampling and analysis individually and collaboratively
• can use basic data management practices and software (e.g. spreadsheets)
• can formulate basic research questions and hypotheses
• can use a precise scientific language to communicate results
• can effectively use graphical/visual aids to present findings (e.g. for a poster)
• can conduct field excursions in accordance to the HMS practice at GEO/UiB