Description:

This introductory text explains the fundamentals of the chemistryof the natural environment and the effects of mankind's activitieson the earth's chemical systems. Retains an emphasis on describing how natural geochemicalprocesses operate over a variety of scales in time and space, andhow the effects of human perturbation can be measured. Topics range from familiar global issues such as atmosphericpollution and its effect on global warming and ozone destruction,to microbiological processes that cause pollution of drinking waterdeltas. Contains sections and information boxes that explain the basicchemistry underpinning the subject covered. Each chapter contains a list of further reading on the subjectarea. Updated case studies. No prior chemistry knowledge required. Suitable for introductory level courses.