To provide a basis of understanding chemical processes occurring in the environment

Chemistry of the earth: overall structure, composition, energy flow, inter-relation of the different spheres. Definitions. Concentrations. The hydrosphere: composition; the water cycle; equilibria in aqueous systems, distribution diagrams; water pollution, water treatment. The lithosphere: composition and structure; weathering; solubility, pH; E-pH diagrams. The atmosphere: composition, chemical processes in the atmosphere, solubility in water; atmospheric pollution; chemistry of acid deposition, greenhouse gas effect, mechanisms of ozone formation and depletion, photochemical smog. The biosphere: composition, major and minor elements; sources, utilisation and disposal; Energy, renewable energy: solar cells, fuel cells, wind and hydroelectric power. Energy storage: batteries. Principles of green chemistry; application of environmental chemistry to UN sustainable development goals and in particular to clean water and sanitation (SDG 6), affordable and clean energy (SDG7), climate action (SDG13) life below water (SDG14) and life on land (SDG15).

On successful completion of this module, students will be able to 1. demonstrate an understanding of a range of different units of concentration for gases, solids and solutions, of the use of ppm and related units in an environmental context. 2. demonstrate an understanding of Henry's Law and its use in calculating the solubility of a gas in water; demonstrate an understanding of the effect of solubility of CO2 on pH and water hardness. 3. demonstrate an understanding of the basis for the preparation of distribution (speciation) diagrams and their use to interpret acid-base and complex equilibria. 4. evaluate the process of metal ion complexation in aqueous systems and the use of complexation to sequester metals. 5. calculate the solubility of ions in solution, prepare and use pM-pX diagrams to explain the conditions for the precipitation of sparingly soluble salts. 6. demonstrate an understanding of the development and use of Pourbaix diagrams to identify the composition of metal species in solution. 7. demonstrate an understanding of the scientific principles underlying atmospheric pollution, including ozone depletion, acid rain, photochemical smog and the greenhouse effect. 8. describe the sources, sinks and effects of gaseous pollutants. 9. demonstrate an understanding of the chemical weathering of rocks and soils and its relation to atmospheric pollution. 10. demonstrate an understanding of the factors that underpin renewable energy sources, and evaluate the use of energy storage systems.

On successful completion of this module, students will 1. appreciate the importance of understanding the scientific basis underpinning environmental issues. 2. realise the application of environmental chemistry to the UN sustainable development goals 3. have developed an awareness of contemporary environmental issues at regional and global levels.

On successful completion of this module, students will 1. be able to use basic laboratory equipment and perform routine environmental analyses involving volumetric, gravimetric and spectrophotometric methods. 2. be able to work safely and competently in a chemical laboratory.

This module will be taught during the semester via a formal blend of interactive lecture, tutorials and laboratory practicals. Overviews of recent research studies on pollution, clean air and renewable energy will be described. The module will aid students in becoming more curious, open-minded and knowledgeable on environmental science, help to develop their sense of personal, social and professional responsibility on current environmental challenges and on the UN sustainable development goals (clean air, water and sanitation, sustainable development). Tutorials, which will involve significant group work, will facilitate the development of collaboration and interpersonal skills, as well as enhancing students' communication and presentation skills.