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651-4004-00L 3 Credits BSC , MSC D-USYS , D-ERDW , D-GESS
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The Global Carbon Cycle - Reduced

Lecturers & Examiners: Prof. em. Dr. Timothy Ian Eglinton, Dr. Lisa Bröder, Prof. Dr. Jordon Hemingway, Dr. Sarah Paradis Vilar
VVZ CR n/a

Last Updated: 2026-06-01 11:33:26

Abstract

The carbon cycle connects different reservoirs of C, including life on Earth, atmospheric CO2, and economically important geological reserves of C. Much of this C is in reduced (organic) form, and is composed of complex chemical structures that reflect diverse biological activity, processes and transformations.

Objective

A wealth of information is held within the complex organic molecules, both in the context of the contemporary carbon cycle and its links to is other biogeochemical cycles, as well as in relation to Earth's history, the evolution of life and climate on this planet. In this course we will learn about the role of reduced forms of carbon in the global cycle, how these forms of carbon are produced, move around the planet, and become sequestered in the geological record, and how they can be used to infer biological activity and conditions on this planet in the geologic past. The course encompasses a range of spatial and temporal scales, from molecular to global, and from the contemporary environment to earliest life.

General Information

Language
English
Levels
BSC , MSC
Frequency
Yearly recurring

Examination

Type
graded semester performance
Grading is based on two assignments during the course:Assignment I: Individual Carbon Database investigationsAssignment II: SNF-style group proposals, comprising of:- Oral Presentations from each group member (during final 2 classes)- Written proposal (handed in – collective effort)

Course Components

Type Title Time & Place Hours
lecture with exercise The Global Carbon Cycle - Reduced
  • Tue 14:15-16:00 (NO C 6)
2 h weekly

Offered In