Principles and Dynamics of the "critical Zone"
A.Y. 2020/2021
Learning objectives
The aim of this course is to provide students with the basic knowledge needed to understand the principles and the dynamics of the Critical Zone, in the framework of interdisciplinary studies.
Expected learning outcomes
Knowledge of the Critical Zone role and its relationship with life on earth. Understanding of their principles and dynamics, both internal and in relation to the atmosphere, the hydrosphere, the biosphere and the lithosphere.
Lesson period: Second semester
Assessment methods: Esame
Assessment result: voto verbalizzato in trentesimi
Single course
This course cannot be attended as a single course. Please check our list of single courses to find the ones available for enrolment.
Course syllabus and organization
non attivo (attivo nel 2021-22)
Lesson period
Second semester
As this course is not activated this year, the field will be filled in next year
Course syllabus
Introduction to the Critical Zone. Climatic aspects. Regolith and Weathering. Soil Morphology and Geochemistry. Water and the Critical Zone. Terrestrial Landscapes of the Critical Zone. Mass Movement Processes. The Impact of Glacial and Periglacial Processes. The Critical Zone in Desert Environments. The Critical Zone in Tropical Environments. Natural and Anthropogenic Factors affecting the Critical Zone.
Prerequisites for admission
To follow this course profitably, knowledge of the basic concepts of earth sciences is recommended.
Teaching methods
Lectures - traditional dispensing.
Teaching Resources
John Giardino and Chris Houser (2015). Principles and Dynamics of the Critical Zone. Elsevier, Amsterdam, 674 p.
Assessment methods and Criteria
The final exam will be oral discussion with questions relating to the topics covered during the course, at the end of which a mark expressed in thirtieths will be recorded. Honors/praise will be attributed when the level of preparation is more than excellent. The exam questions will be consistent with the types of topics and the study and analysis methods related to the topics covered.
The final evaluation will take into account the knowledge acquired (60%) and the ability to organize and illustrate the arguments (30%) and the presentation skills (10%).
The final evaluation will take into account the knowledge acquired (60%) and the ability to organize and illustrate the arguments (30%) and the presentation skills (10%).
AGR/14 - PEDOLOGY - University credits: 6
Lessons: 48 hours