Biogeochemical cycle modelling and global changes

Duration

20h Th, 20h Pr

Number of credits

Lecturer

Louis François

Language(s) of instruction

French language

Organisation and examination

Teaching in the first semester, examination in June

Schedule

Schedule online

Units courses prerequisite and corequisite

Prerequisite or corequisite units are presented within each program

Learning unit contents

Theoretical part: Introduction. The biogeochemical cycles. Chemical equilibria and pH calculation. Reservoir models: theory and numerical methods. Modelling of phosphorus and carbon cycles in the ocean. Modelling of biogeochemical processes over continents. Modelling of long-term geochemical evolution of the Earth. Modelling of transport processes: diagenesis in marine sediments, soil hydrological modelling.

Practical part: Exercises on computer.

Learning outcomes of the learning unit

The objective of the lessons is an introduction to numerical methods used in Earth global modelling. These methods are illustrated in the framework of the biogeochemical cycles. The focus is on the processes governing the evolution of the chemical composition of ocean, atmosphere and land biosphere at various timescales, from the paleoenvironmental changes observed in geological records to the present climate changes. The lessons contain practical exercises on computer where the student will perform simulations of simple numerical models.

Prerequisite knowledge and skills

The student should be familiar with the use of computers.

Planned learning activities and teaching methods

Exercises on computer: models presented in the theoretical lectures (sensitivity studies) will be used.

Mode of delivery (face to face, distance learning, hybrid learning)

The lectures are organised during the first semester. Schedule to be defined.

Organisational adjustments related to the current health context

Lectures via Lifesize. No modification for the exam (written report).

Recommended or required readings

A pdf file of the lectures is available to the students.

Assessment methods and criteria

Below you will find information on the evaluation methods planned for in-person and remote exams as well as those planned for hybrid sessions. Depending on how the health crisis evolves, the chosen method will be communicated to you no later than one month before the start of the exam session.

Report on the work performed during the computer exercise sessions.

Work placement(s)

Organizational remarks

Contacts

Louis François, Professor, Laboratory of Planetary and Atmospheric Physics, Institute of Astrophysics et and Geophysics (B5c build.), Phone: (+32) (4) 366-9776 e-mail: Louis.Francois@uliege.be

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