Modules

Prerequisites

Contents

The course offers a broad introduction to the use of stable isotopes (SI) in Environmental Science. Basic knowledge on terminology, fractionation processes, isotope mixing, instrumentation and standards. The topics covered are plants and photosynthesis; atmosphere and greenhouse gases; soil nutrient cycles; water isotopes in the landscape. Selected aspects will be further explored in the accompanying seminar using scientific publications and orally presented by the students.

Learning outcomes

Lectures and textbook reading: the students will be familiar with the major stable isotopes of carbon, nitrogen, oxygen and hydrogen used in studies of Environmental Science. They understand fractionation and mixing processes, the use of stable isotopes as tracers in process studies, and they have knowledge on instrumentation and standards. Exercises: the students are able to plan and conduct a project using stable isotopes, including data analysis. Seminar: The students understand the structure of scientific publications and are able to critically analyze and evaluate research results.

Assessment

1. 8 assignments from exercises (40%) 2. Oral presentation based on scientific publication, ca. 15-20 min. (30%) 3. Written final assessment, 4-5 pages (30 %)