GES4890

Earth system interactions: from biogeochemical cycles to global change

(ART)

Dr Jason Beringer

6 points + First semester + Clayton + 4 hours per week + Prerequisite: Second year physical geography, earth science, atmospheric science, biology or by permission + Prohibtion: GES3890, ATM3261

Synopsis: This unit will deal with the interactions and feedbacks amongst the Earth's different subsystems - the atmosphere, ocean, mantle and crust, cryosphere, and biological systems. The unit will examine the dynamics of the earth by identifying the major driving processes and responses of the biosphere to energy, water and biogeochemical cycles in the earth system together with the characteristic spatial and temporal scales over which they occur. These processes and cycles will be viewed from two different timescales: firstly, thousands to millions of years and secondly, decades to centuries.

Assessment: Oral seminar or debate presentation: 25% + Examination (2 hours): 40% + Research study report (2500 words): 35% + Students will be expected to demonstrate greater capacity for critical analysis in the research study report.