Course Content
Introduction to Environmental Chemistry
Environmental chemistry is the study of the chemical and biochemical phenomena that occur in nature. It involves the understanding of how the uncontaminated environment works, and which naturally occurring chemicals are present, in what concentrations and with what effects. Environmental chemistry; is the study of sources, reactions, transport, effects and fate of chemical species in water, soil and air environment as well as their effects on human health and natural environment
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Introduction
Origin of the solar System
Cosmology; is the branch of astronomy involving the study of the of the universe and the solar system. Cosmo-chemistry ;( chemical cosmology); is the study of chemical composition of the matter in the universe and the process that led to those compositions The solar system is made up of the sun (a star) with nine planets orbiting around it. These planets together with all the other heavenly bodies moving around or between individual planet form members of the solar system. Other heavenly body include; asteroids, comets, meteors, meteorites and satellites such as moon. The solar system does not include other stars .
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Origin of The Universe and Solar System
Solutions
Solutions are defined as homogeneous mixtures that are mixed so thoroughly that neither component can be observed independently of the other. The major component of the solution is called solvent, and the minor component(s) are called solute.
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Introduction
Solubility of Solutions
Solubility Product
Solution Concentrations
Chemical Equilibria
Chemical equilibrium in the environment refers to the state where the rates of forward and reverse reactions of a chemical reaction reach a balance. In this state, the concentrations of reactants and products remain constant over time, although the reactions continue to occur.
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Introduction
The Concept of Equilibrium
Relation Between Chemical Kinetics and Chemical Equilibrium
Factors Affecting Chemical Equilibrium
Laws of Chemical Equilibria
Phase Interactions
Phase interactions in solutions refer to the behavior and changes that occur when two or more substances (solutes and solvents) mix together to form a homogeneous mixture. These interactions are related to the different phases of matter, such as solids, liquids, and gases, and how they interact and transform during the process of solution formation.
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Introduction
 Phase interactions
Colligative Properties of Solutions
COLLIGATIVE PROPERTIES OF SOLUTIONS Colligative properties are physical properties of solutions that depend on the concentration of solute particles, rather than the specific identity of the solute. The four colligative properties that can be exhibited by a solution are: 1.Boiling point elevation 2.Freezing point depression 3.Relative lowering of vapour pressure 4.Osmotic pressure
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Introduction
Colligative Properties Examples
Introduction To Organic Chemistry
Organic chemistry is the study of carbon containing compounds and their properties. This includes the great majority of chemical compounds on the planet, but some substances such as carbonates and oxides of carbon are considered to be inorganic substances even though they contain carbon.
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Introduction
The IUPAC Naming (nomenclature) 
Alkyl halides, Alkenes and Alkynes
Alcohols , Ethers, Aldehydes and Ketones
Carboxylic Acids, Esters and Amines
Simple Organic Molecules in the Environment
Soil Chemistry and Pollution
soil
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Introduction to Soil Chemistry
Chemical Characteristics of Soil
Biological Characteristics of Soil
Physical Characteristics of Soil
Soil Salinity, Conductivity and Ion Exchange Capacity
Soil Pollution
Water Chemistry and Polution
Water Chemistry
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Water and the Environment
Water Chemistry
Characteristics and Properties of Water
Portable water 
Water pollution
Water Quality Analysis
Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD)
Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD)
Air Quality and Pollution
Air Quality and Pollution
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Air Quality
Testing Air Quality
Biodegradation
Biodegradation
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Biodegradation
Mechanisms of Biodegradation 
Role of Microorganisms in Biodegradation
BioGeoChemical Cycles
BiogeoChemical Cycles
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Biogeochemical cycles
The Water Cycle
The Carbon Cycle
The Nitrogen Cycle
The Phosphorus Cycle
The Sulfur Cycle
Introduction To Environmental Chemistry
About Lesson

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Introduction to Soil Chemistry

Soil chemistry refers to the study of the chemical properties and processes that occur in soil. It involves understanding the composition, reactions, and transformations of various chemical elements and compounds in the soil environment. Soil chemistry is an essential aspect of soil science, as it plays a crucial role in determining soil fertility, nutrient availability, soil pH, and overall soil health.

Here are some key concepts and factors related to soil chemistry:

  1. Soil Composition: Soils are composed of inorganic minerals, organic matter, water, air, and living organisms. The inorganic fraction consists of minerals such as clay, silt, and sand, which determine soil texture. The organic matter includes decomposed plant and animal residues, providing nutrients and improving soil structure.

  2. Soil pH: Soil pH is a measure of the soil’s acidity or alkalinity. It affects nutrient availability to plants and the activity of soil microorganisms. Most crops prefer a slightly acidic to neutral pH range (pH 6-7), although there are exceptions for specific plants.

  3. Cation Exchange Capacity (CEC): CEC is a measure of a soil’s ability to retain and exchange cations (positively charged ions). It determines the soil’s nutrient-holding capacity. Soils with a higher CEC can hold more nutrients, reducing the risk of nutrient leaching.

  4. Nutrient Availability: Soil chemistry influences the availability of essential nutrients for plant growth. Elements such as nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), potassium (K), and micronutrients must be present in appropriate concentrations and forms for plants to uptake them effectively.

  5. Soil Organic Matter (SOM): SOM is a vital component of soil chemistry. It provides nutrients, improves soil structure, enhances water-holding capacity, and promotes beneficial microbial activity. It also influences cation exchange capacity and nutrient retention.

  6. Chemical Reactions: Various chemical reactions occur in the soil, affecting nutrient availability and soil fertility. Examples include mineral weathering, nutrient fixation, nutrient release, acidification, and redox reactions.

  7. Soil Contaminants: Soil chemistry plays a role in determining the fate and behavior of contaminants in soil, such as heavy metals, pesticides, and organic pollutants. Understanding soil chemistry is essential for assessing and managing soil contamination.

  8. Soil Amendments: Knowledge of soil chemistry helps in determining suitable soil amendments to improve soil fertility and correct nutrient imbalances. Lime is used to adjust soil pH, while organic matter, such as compost or manure, can enhance nutrient content and soil structure.

Soil chemistry is a complex and interdisciplinary field that integrates aspects of chemistry, biology, geology, and environmental science. By studying soil chemistry, scientists and agronomists can gain insights into soil fertility, nutrient management, and sustainable agricultural practices.

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