University of St Andrews

Key information

SCOTCAT credits : 15

ECTS credits : 7

Level : SCQF level 11

Semester: 2

Planned timetable: To be arranged.

Earth's surface environment is tightly regulated by biogeochemical processes. The biosphere directly influences the composition of Earth's atmosphere, ocean chemistry, and global climate, through the cycling of nutrients and other elements. This module will examine the role of biogeochemical processes in controlling Earth surface chemistry, and their possible influence on deep Earth reservoirs. Emphasis will be placed on feedbacks between the geosphere, atmosphere, and biosphere over geologic time, and how these interactions have both contributed and responded to important transitions in Earth history (e.g., the Great Oxidation Event, global glaciations). We will also highlight current geochemical (e.g., stable isotope ratios) and numerical (e.g., modelling) techniques used to constrain these interactions in both modern and ancient (rock record) systems.

Learning and teaching methods and delivery

Weekly contact: 2 x 1-hour lectures and 3-hour practical sessions.

Scheduled learning hours: 36

Guided independent study hours: 114

Assessment pattern

As used by St Andrews: 2-hour Written Examination = 40%, Coursework (including modelling exercises, literature review and project) = 60%

As defined by QAA
Written examinations : 40%
Practical examinations : 0%
Coursework: 60%

Re-assessment: 2-hour Written Examination = 80%, existing Coursework = 20%

Personnel

Module coordinator: Dr A L Zerkle
Module teaching staff: Dr A Zerkle, Dr M Claire, Dr S Mikhail
Module coordinator email az29@st-andrews.ac.uk