Syllabus: ATM OCN 472
Scientific Background to Global Environmental
Problems (3 credits) (X-listed with Physics and IES)

Course Description

The course will provide an introduction to those branches of chemistry, physics, meteorology, biology, geology and astronomy that are essential for applications to Earth-System Science. This background will permit a detailed study of global problems of current interest, such as greenhouse warming, ozone depletion, acid rain, toxins in the environment and biodiversity/extinction of species. Particular attention will be focussed throughout on the various ways in which light and other radiation interact with matter at the atomic level.

The prerequisite for the course will be high school algebra, plus an understanding of the atomic nature of matter at the level of an introductory university course in chemistry or physics.

Course Content