Environmental chemistry
Published: April 4, 2008, 9:32 pm
Updated: April 4, 2008, 9:32 pm
This article has been reviewed by the following Topic Editor:
Marty Matlock Introduction to Environmental Chemistry
Environmental chemistry is the study of the sources, reactions, transport, effects, and fates of chemical species in the hydrosphere, lithosphere, atmosphere, and biosphere (ref. 1991, Manahan, Stanley E., Environmental Chemistry, 5th Ed., Lewis Publishing, Chelsea, MI). Various subcategories of environmental chemistry include environmental biochemistry, environmental organic chemistry, geochemistry, atmospheric chemistry, and aquatic chemistry. As one can see, environmental chemistry means many things to many people. But all would agree that this science seeks to understand our world through the application of chemical and physical parameters of elements and molecules to systems large and small. For example, this might involve the migration of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) from the atmosphere to water and its accumulation in biota. Or it might involve the degradation of chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) in the stratosphere. Or it might involve the diagenesis of organic matter into coal.
Careers in Environmental Chemistry
Environmental chemists work in a variety of fields, including natural resource management, and environmental consulting, environmental regulation, and as environmental compliance personnel for industries. Professional preparation for this filed requires an undergraduate degree in chemistry, biochemistry, or related fields and a MS or PhD in environmental chemistry.
Further Reading
Additional information about environmental chemistry may be found at the following web sites:
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Citation
Randolph Larsen (Lead Author);Marty Matlock (Topic Editor) "Environmental chemistry". In: Encyclopedia of Earth. Eds. Cutler J. Cleveland (Washington, D.C.: Environmental Information Coalition, National Council for Science and the Environment). [First published in the Encyclopedia of Earth April 4, 2008; Last revised Date April 4, 2008; Retrieved May 22, 2013 <http://www.eoearth.org/article/Environmental_chemistry>
The Author
Twentieth century science and technology made tremendous advances, however many of the chemicals intended to advance our quality of life have migrated into the environment were they pose a risk to both human and ecosystem health. Dr. Larsen's professional interests involve studying the movement, fate and impact of toxins in our environment. Dr. Larsen holds a B.E. in chemical engineering from Vanderbilt University, a M.S. in civil (environmental) engineering from the University of Oklaho ... (Full Bio)
Introduction to Environmental Chemistry
Environmental chemistry is the study of the sources, reactions, transport, effects, and fates of chemical species in the hydrosphere, lithosphere, atmosphere, and biosphere (ref. 1991, Manahan, Stanley E., Environmental Chemistry, 5th Ed., Lewis Publishing, Chelsea, MI). Various subcategories of environmental chemistry include environmental biochemistry, environmental organic chemistry, geochemistry, atmospheric chemistry, and aquatic chemistry. As one can see, environmental chemistry means many things to many people. But all would agree that this science seeks to understand our world through the application of chemical and physical parameters of elements and molecules to systems large and small. For example, this might involve the migration of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) from the atmosphere to water and its accumulation in biota. Or it might involve the degradation of chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) in the stratosphere. Or it might involve the diagenesis of organic matter into coal.
Careers in Environmental Chemistry
Environmental chemists work in a variety of fields, including natural resource management, and environmental consulting, environmental regulation, and as environmental compliance personnel for industries. Professional preparation for this filed requires an undergraduate degree in chemistry, biochemistry, or related fields and a MS or PhD in environmental chemistry.
Further Reading
Additional information about environmental chemistry may be found at the following web sites:
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