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Radionuclides as Environmental Tracers
Last Updated: 2026-02-05 16:16:18
Abstract
This blended learning course will provide an overview of cosmogenic and anthropogenic radionuclides, powerful tools for understanding a wide range of environmental processes. Students will learn about the measurements of long-lived radionuclides using Accelerator Mass Spectrometers, and explore their applications as tracers in the environment.
Objective
1. Students will be able to explain the properties and characteristics of different types of radionuclides. They will describe how these radionuclides are utilized as environmental tracers through real-life case studies, covering topics such as understanding past climate changes, ocean currents, and other environmental processes. 2. Students will be able to quantify environmental processes using radionuclides, and critically evaluate the validity and reliability of their research outcomes. They will apply critical thinking to analyze and interpret data, ensuring a thorough understanding of the studied phenomena. 3. Students will be able to create informative explanatory videos about radionuclides as environmental tracers. They will demonstrate their understanding by effectively presenting complex concepts in a visually engaging and accessible manner, enabling them to communicate the importance and applications of radionuclide tracers to a broader audience.
Content
This blended learning course will provide students with a multi-dimensional learning experience by combining elements of self-study, in-class discussions and activities, lectures, and an excursion to visit the AMS facilities of ETH Zurich's Laboratory of Ion Beam Physics. Throughout the course, students will gain knowledge and understanding of natural and artificial radionuclides and their detection with AMS technology. Using case studies, they will explore the applications of long-lived radionuclides in various environmental compartments, including oceans, atmosphere, and terrestrial environments. To assess the consolidation of their knowledge, students will be required to submit exercises, participate in in-class activities and work on a semester project, which will become part of the online learning resources. By the end of the course, students will have gained a comprehensive understanding of radionuclides and their applications in different environmental settings.
General Information
- Language
- English
- Levels
- MSC
- Frequency
- Yearly recurring
Examination
- Type
- graded semester performance
Course Components
| Type | Title | Time & Place | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| lecture | Radionuclides as Environmental Tracers |
|
2 h weekly |
Offered In
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Electives (Courses can be chosen from the complete offerings of the ETH Zurich and University of Zurich (according to prior agreement with the subject advisor).)
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