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701-0501-00L 3 Credits
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Pedosphere

Pedosphäre

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

Last Updated: 2026-02-05 14:59:35

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

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.

Content

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

Resources

Lecture Notes

Lecture notes can be purchased during the first lecture (15.- SFr)

Literature

- Scheffer F. Scheffer/Schachtschabel - Lehrbuch der Bodenkunde, 15. Auflage, Spektrum Akademischer Verlag, Heidelberg, 2002. - Brady N.C. and Weil, R.R. The Nature and Properties of Soils. 13th ed. Prentice Hall, 2002.

General Information

Language
German
Frequency
Yearly recurring

Examination

Type
session examination
Mode
written 90 minutes
Aids
Ein handgeschriebenes Merkblatt, A4, beidseitig.

Course Components

Type Title Time & Place Hours
lecture Pedosphäre
  • Mon 08:15-10:00 (HG F 5)
2 h weekly

Offered In