NTRES 3030

Introduction to Biogeochemistry

Course Description

Course information provided by the 2026-2027 Catalog.

Control and function of the Earth's global biogeochemical cycles. Begins with a review of the basic inorganic and organic chemistry of biologically significant elements, and then considers the biogeochemical cycling of carbon, nutrients, and metals that take place in soil, sediments, rivers, and the oceans. Topics include weathering, acid-base chemistry, biological redox processes, nutrient cycling and limitation, trace gas fluxes, bio-active metals, the use of isotopic tracers, controls on atmospheric carbon dioxide, and carbon cycle models. Interactions between global biogeochemical cycles and other components of the Earth system are discussed. Co-enrollment in one lab/discussion section per week is required.

Prerequisites CHEM 2070 or equivalent, MATH 1120, and a course in biology and/or geology.

Distribution Requirements (OPHLS-AG, PSC-AG), (BIO-AS, PHS-AS)

Exploratory Studies (CU-SBY)

Last 4 Terms Offered 2025FA, 2024FA, 2023FA, 2022FA

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