Environmental Chemistry

This course focuses on the chemical aspects of environmental problems that have been created by humans. Environmental chemistry of soil, water and air is studied by focusing on the two major chemical categories, namely organic and inorganic chemicals. Chemical and physical properties of various organic and inorganic compounds (e.g., VOCs, PAHs, PCBs, Mercury, Arsenic, Lead, etc.) will be reviewed in order to obtain a thorough understanding of how each of these compounds will interact within varying environmental conditions (e.g., surface and subsurface soil and water and air). Once an understanding of the chemical and physical properties of these compounds has been achieved, this knowledge will then be applied to the development of site specific sampling plan development and the selection of applicable site restoration approaches to remediate the various contaminants of concern.