Physical Geography: Greenhouse Gases and Biogeochemical Cycles

<p>The course focus on knowledge of the vegetation dynamics, carbon cycle, greenhouse gases, climate, and environmental problems in the area. The course includes a number of practical elements such as field and laboratory based exercises, computer exercises as well as a longer field trip.</p><p>The course contains lectures aiming a solid theoretical knowledge about the carbon cycle, greenhouse gases and environmental issues. Topics covered are assimilation of carbon in ecosystems via the photosynthesis, discharge of carbon from ecosystems by respiration and decomposition and production of greenhouse gases (e.g. carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous oxide and other volatile organic carbon compounds). The influence on these processes by climate and vegetation changes is also treated. The course contains several applied components, as field trips, computer- and laboratory based exercises and a longer field course for data collection and field experimentation. The aim is to provide students with both theoretical and practical knowledge regarding relevant methodologies utilised.</p> <p> </p>