GEOS2060
10 units
2000 level
Course handbook
Description
The Earth's Critical Zone comprises the layer that extends from the uppermost reach of the topsoil vegetation to the depths of weathered bedrock. It is a dynamic area where air, plants, soil, sediment, groundwater, nutrients, and living organisms interact. This course delves into the fundamental properties of sediments and soils, basic hydrogeological principles of groundwater, and plant nutrient dynamics, as well as biogeochemical cycles and the intricate relationships within the subsurface. Through this exploration, you will discover that the Critical Zone is where the diverse spheres of our planet converge to form an essential foundation for sustaining life and are critical for human survival. You will acquire the skills to describe and quantify the physical, chemical, and biological attributes of the subsurface, enabling you to analyse data and understand the properties and processes occurring in the Critical Zone. Furthermore, this course equips you with the capability to collect and disseminate geoscientific information and to build your capacity for collaborative work both in the field and laboratory settings. Upon completing the course, you will be well-versed in harnessing your knowledge of the Earth's Critical Zone to address tangible, real-world challenges. These may include navigating the complexities of natural resource management, implementing innovative land reclamation strategies, or refining land-use practices to support environmental preservation, particularly through harnessing biogeochemical nutrient cycles or groundwater flow.
Availability2024 Course Timetables
Callaghan
- Semester 2 - 2024
Learning outcomes
On successful completion of the course students will be able to:
1. Describe and quantify the physical and chemical properties and processes of Earth’s Critical Zone;
2. Measure, analyse and interpret data to evaluate Critical Zone properties and processes;
3. Apply knowledge of the Critical Zone to real-world challenges;
4. Collect, analyse and effectively communicate geoscientific information;
5. Work collaboratively in the field and laboratory.
Content
This course explores the interconnected processes within Earth's Critical Zone using the framework of Earth System Sciences. Key topics encompass the foundational Earth science necessary for understanding the properties and interwoven processes that occur in the Critical Zone. Specific areas covered include:
- Overview of the Critical Zone,
- Sediment and soil formation,
- Unique impacts of Australia's ancient landscape,
- Sediment and soil properties,
- Groundwater occurrence and flow dynamics,
- Overview of soil water quality,
- Clay minerals and surface charge,
- Nutrient cycling and environmental dynamics,
- Vegetation structure, function, and dynamics.
Assumed knowledge
GEOS1040, or GEOS1050, or ENVS1001
Assessment items
Quiz: Quizzes
Report: Practical Reports
Formal Examination: Examination
Contact hours
Semester 2 - 2024 - Callaghan
Laboratory-1
- Face to Face On Campus 2 hour(s) per fortnight for 5 fortnight(s) starting in week 3
- Practicals require participation, data collection, analysis and interpretation as well as preparation and submission of practical reports.
- Compulsory Requirement: Students must attend 80% of sessions.
Lecture-1
- Face to Face On Campus 2 hour(s) per week(s) for 12 week(s) starting in week 1
Workshop-1
- Face to Face On Campus 2 hour(s) per fortnight for 5 fortnight(s) starting in week 4
Course outline
Course outline not yet available.
The University of Newcastle acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands within our footprint areas: Awabakal, Darkinjung, Biripai, Worimi, Wonnarua, and Eora Nations. We also pay respect to the wisdom of our Elders past and present.