Physical Geography: Introduction to the Global Environment

<p>The course provide you with basic knowledge about the planet Earth, the soil and its bio-geo-sphere dynamic systems and processes, and their role in different applications in research and society, as well as their connection to current environmental problems. Introduction of remote sensing - and GIS-techniques.</p><p>The course consists of four partially integrated sub-sections. The first part covers basic mineralogy, geology and soil science. Here, geomorphology (landscape features) is introduced, covering endogenous, exogenous and ecological processes, abiotic and biotic developments and transformations of the landscape, and changes to the landscape at different spatial and temporal scales. The second part deals with meteorological, climatological, hydrological and oceanographic processes and relationships at different scales. The third part covers ecosystem processes including vegetation dynamics, and the relationship between climate and the development of soil types in different biomes. Finally, the students are introduced to remote sensing and GIS-technology. During the course, the students will gain practical skills in performing presentations, in communication, computing and library resources.</p>