CHM1202 Environmental Chemistry

In this course students will use the fundamental principles of chemistry to gain an understanding of the source, fate, and reactivity of compounds in natural and polluted environments. Emphasis will be placed on the environmental implications of energy utilization and on the chemistry of the atmosphere, hydrosphere, and lithosphere. Environmental issues that will be discussed include climate change, air pollution, stratospheric ozone depletion, pollution and treatment of water sources, and the utilization of insecticides and herbicides.

Course Objectives    
By the end of the course, the student is expected to be able to:

• Relate chemistry and the environment and introduces environmental problems arising from domestic, industrial and agricultural activities.
• Classify pollutants, their effects and sources.
• Explain the ozone layer depletion, greenhouse effect and global warming.

Learning outcomes    
On successful completion of this course unit, the students should be able:

• To demonstrate the ability to use scientific skills necessary to identify and analyze environmental issues.
• Identify and discuss values and beliefs inherent in environmental decision-making.
• To demonstrate the ability to explain the effect of human influence in the environment.
• To identify and construe state and international environmental laws and policy.