ENVS1002
10 units
1000 level
Course handbook
Description
Environmental Science is a multidisciplinary approach to understanding and solving the interactions between humans and the Earth. This course introduces students to a number of the basic physical and chemical environmental systems which are fundamental to understanding these interrelationships. The course investigates the scientific principles relevant to energy and energy resources as well as the role chemistry plays in our understanding of the natural environment and the influence of human activities.
Availability2024 Course Timetables
Callaghan
- Semester 2 - 2024
Ourimbah
- Semester 2 - 2024
Learning outcomes
On successful completion of the course students will be able to:
1. Summarise the physical and chemical characteristics of environmental systems
2. Describe the different energy sources and explain the costs and benefits in an environmental context
3. Compare the different renewable and non-renewable energy resources and their associated impacts
4. Describe key chemical processes of the hydrosphere, atmosphere and lithosphere
5. Demonstrate competency in the analysis of physical and chemical properties of environmental systems
Content
1. Thermodynamics: thermal energy, heat transfer and efficiency in the generation of electricity
2. Renewable energy sources: comparison of modes and technological factors influencing development
3. Non-renewable energy sources: management of waste and environmental impacts, transport
4. Chemical aspects of nutrient cycling, energy and waste production and climate change
5. Fundamentals of chemistry in the hydrosphere, atmosphere and lithosphere
6. The role of chemistry in environmental studies
Requisite
Students cannot enrol in this course if they have successfully completed PHYS2300.
Assumed knowledge
ENVS1001 and MATH1001
Assessment items
Quiz: Regular Online Quizzes
Tutorial / Laboratory Exercises: Laboratory Exercises
Online Open Book Formal Examination: Formal Examination
Contact hours
Semester 2 - 2024 - Callaghan
Laboratory-1
- Face to Face On Campus 3 hour(s) per week(s) for 13 week(s) starting in week 1
Lecture-1
- Face to Face On Campus 2 hour(s) per week(s) for 13 week(s) starting in week 1
Semester 2 - 2024 - Ourimbah
Laboratory-1
- Face to Face On Campus 3 hour(s) per week(s) for 13 week(s) starting in week 1
Lecture-1
- Face to Face On Campus 2 hour(s) per week(s) for 13 week(s) starting in week 1
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.