Atmospheric Chemistry

Code School Level Credits Semesters
CHEM2008 Chemistry 2 10 Spring UK
Code
CHEM2008
School
Chemistry
Level
2
Credits
10
Semesters
Spring UK

Summary

Physical properties of the atmosphere. Pressure variations, temperature inversions, chemical transport, greenhouse effect and global warming. The chemistry of the stratosphere. Ozone formation and destruction, Antarctic and Arctic ozone holes and stratospheric cooling.  Chemistry of the troposphere. Oxidation of organic molecules, photochemical smog formation, acid rain and their effects.  Effects of various regulatory policies and change in energy portfolio.  

Target Students

Only available for BSc/MSci Chemistry OR Medicinal and Biological OR Chemistry and Molecular Physics OR Natural Sciences AND for Level 2 students.

Classes

Assessment

Assessed by end of spring semester

Educational Aims

To understand the key physical and chemical properties of different regions of the Earth’s atmosphere.To introduce topics of current relevance to the chemistry and physics of pollution and global warming in the atmosphere.

Learning Outcomes

Knowledge and Understanding: An understanding of the basic structure of the atmosphere and the chemical reactions driving major physical phenomena of the 21st century such as ozone hole and global warming. 

Intellectual Skills: application of this understanding in the assessment of environmental problems.

Transferable/Key Skills: problem-solving, scientific deduction, and written communication skills. 

Conveners

View in Curriculum Catalogue
Last updated 07/01/2025.