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701-0501-00L 3 Credits BSC D-USYS , D-BAUG , D-CHAB
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Pedosphere

Pedosphäre

Lecturers & Examiners: Prof. Dr. Ruben Kretzschmar
VVZ CR n/a

Last Updated: 2026-06-01 11:30:26

Abstract

Introduction to the formation and properties of soils as a function of parent rock, landscape position, climate, and soil organisms. Complex relationships between soil forming processes, physical and chemical soil properties, soil biota, and ecological soil properties are explained and illustrated by numerous examples.

Objective

Understanding of soils as integral parts of ecosystems, development and distribution of soils as a function of environmental factors, and processes leading to soil degradation. The course "Pedosphäre" teaches and examines the competences process understanding and systems understanding.

Content

Definition of the pedosphere, soil functions, rocks as parent materials, minerals and weathering, soil organisms, soil organic matter, soil formation, principles of soil classification, global soil regions, physical soil properties and functions, chemical soil properties and functions, soil fertility, land use and soil degradation.

Resources

Lecture Notes

Polybook

Literature

- Scheffer/Schachtschabel - Soil Science, Springer, Heidelberg, 2016. - Brady N.C. and Weil, R.R. The Nature and Properties of Soils. 14th ed. Prentice Hall, 2007.

General Information

Language
German
Levels
BSC
Frequency
Yearly recurring

Examination

Type
session examination
Mode
written 90 minutes
Aids
Keine. Ein Hilfsblatt wird an der Prüfung zur Verfügung gestellt.
Digital
The exam takes place on devices provided by ETH Zurich.

Course Components

Type Title Time & Place Hours
lecture Pedosphäre
  • Thu 10:15-12:00 (HG D 1.2)
2 h weekly

Offered In