Quantitative approaches to practical aqueous geochemistry problems. Equilibrium thermodynamics, kinetics, complexation, oxidation reduction, cation exchange, sorption and partitioning of organics. Case Studies. [2-2-0]
Prerequisite: Either (a) all of CHEM 111, CHEM 113 or (b) all of CHEM 121, CHEM 123 or (c) SCIE 001 or (d) CHEM 154.
Corequisite: EOSC 329.
1) Analysis of groundwater geochemistry problems
Background knowledge
Ulrich Mayer, Steve Atkin
The focus of this course is to provide a basic understanding of geochemical processes and their effect the evolution of natural and contaminated groundwater. Quantitative approaches to groundwater geochemistry problems are introduced and further discussed based on practical applications and case studies. Specific topics covered include hydrolysis, acid-base chemistry, the carbonate system, aqueous complexation, dissolution-precipitation, cation exchange, surface complexation, and inorganic and microbially-mediated oxidation-reduction reactions. Case studies include the dedolomitization of aquifers, the formation of uranium roll fronts, arsenic contamination in Bangladesh, trace metal mobility in mining waste environments, and geochemical aspects of groundwater remediation methods.
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Week 1 Introduction to groundwater geochemistry Week 2 Review of geochemical principles Week 3 Acid/base geochemistry and aqueous complexation Week 4 Carbonate geochemistry: Week 5 Carbonate geochemistry: Week 6 Mineral dissolution-precipitation Week 7 Adsorption, ion exchange, and surface complexation |
Week Adsorption, ion exchange and surface complexation Week 9 Redox geochemistry Week 10 Redox geochemistry Week 11 Redox geochemistry Week 12 Redox geochemistry Week 13 Application of geochemical principles to groundwater attenuation |
A number of exercises will involve the application of quantitative techniques introduced in the course largely based on case studies. Some of the assignments involve the use of a computer model (PHREEQC V3) to simplify the assessment of more complex geochemical systems. An introductory laboratory on the use of this model is also part of the course.