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701-1214-00L 4 Credits DR , MSC D-USYS , D-MATH

Atmospheric Chemistry and Global Change

Lecturers & Examiners: Prof. Dr. Colette Heald
Class requires a minimum of 8 students to be enrolled
VVZ CR n/a

Last Updated: 2026-06-03 00:14:18

Abstract

In this course we will explore how atmospheric chemical composition both drives and responds to changes in the earth system, including climate change. We will discuss recent advances and key uncertainties in our understanding of the processes that control the abundance of reactive gases and aerosols in the atmosphere and their interaction with global change.

Objective

After this course, students will be able to: • critically read and summarise recent literature in atmospheric chemistry • explain the key drivers of past and future changes in atmospheric composition • evaluate how uncertainties in relevant atmospheric chemistry processes may impact projections of future atmospheric composition • design an original research proposal

Content

This class builds on fundamental understanding of atmospheric chemistry to explore how atmospheric chemistry interacts with global change, both past and future. Lectures cover a range of topics and are complemented by literature discussions. Specific topics include: fires, land use change, biogenic organics, carbonaceous aerosol, nitrogen, sulphur, methane, dust and metals, air quality and climate, and geoengineering. The class concludes with students developing and presenting a novel research proposal based on the topics discussed in class.

Resources

Literature

IPCC Sixth Assessment Report, Working Group 1 Report “The Physical Science Basis” (available online: http://www.ipcc.ch/report/ar6/wg1/ ). All other material will be taken from the recent literature.

General Information

Language
English
Levels
DR , MSC
Frequency
Yearly recurring

Examination

Type
graded semester performance
Discussion Leader Presentation: 20%Lecture & Discussion Participation and Weekly Summaries: 30%Written Research Proposal: 35%Presentation of Research Proposal and Panelist Participation: 15%

Registration & Places

Max Places
20
Signup End
27.02.2026

Course Components

Type Title Time & Place Hours
lecture Atmospheric Chemistry and Global Change
  • Mon 09:15-11:00 (CHN D 29)
2 h weekly
exercise Atmospheric Chemistry and Global Change
  • Mon 11:15-12:00 (CHN D 29)
1 h weekly

Offered In