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
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Physical Characteristics of Soil

The physical characteristics of soil refer to the physical properties and attributes that describe its texture, structure, water-holding capacity, aeration, and other related features. These characteristics play a vital role in determining soil fertility, drainage, root development, and overall soil health. Here are some important physical characteristics of soil:

  1. Soil Texture: Soil texture refers to the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay particles in the soil. It influences important soil properties such as water-holding capacity, nutrient retention, drainage, and aeration. Soils can be classified as sandy, loamy, or clayey based on their predominant particle size.

  2. Soil Structure: Soil structure refers to the arrangement and aggregation of soil particles into larger units called aggregates. Soil aggregates are beneficial for root penetration, water movement, and air circulation. The presence of organic matter and soil microorganisms can contribute to the development of good soil structure.

  3. Porosity: Porosity refers to the volume of pore spaces within the soil. It affects water infiltration, drainage, and aeration. The presence of well-defined pore spaces is crucial for root growth and the movement of water, air, and nutrients through the soil.

  4. Soil Water-Holding Capacity: Soil water-holding capacity is the ability of soil to retain water for plant use. It depends on soil texture, structure, and organic matter content. Sandy soils have lower water-holding capacity, while clayey soils generally have higher water-holding capacity.

  5. Soil Permeability: Soil permeability refers to the ability of soil to allow water to flow through it. It is influenced by soil texture and structure. Sandy soils are more permeable, allowing water to move through quickly, while clayey soils have lower permeability, leading to slower water movement.

  6. Soil Compaction: Soil compaction occurs when soil particles are pressed closer together, reducing pore space and restricting root growth, water movement, and aeration. It can be caused by heavy machinery, excessive foot traffic, or improper soil management practices. Compacted soils have reduced productivity and can lead to drainage issues.

  7. Soil Erosion: Soil erosion refers to the removal and displacement of soil particles by wind, water, or other factors. The physical characteristics of soil, such as texture, structure, and organic matter content, influence its susceptibility to erosion. Erosion can lead to loss of topsoil, nutrient depletion, and decreased soil fertility.

  8. Soil Color: Soil color is influenced by the mineral content and organic matter present in the soil. It can provide information about soil drainage, organic matter content, and presence of certain minerals. For example, well-drained soils are often lighter in color, while poorly drained soils tend to be darker.

Understanding the physical characteristics of soil is essential for proper land management, soil conservation, and agricultural practices. It helps in determining soil suitability for different crops, irrigation requirements, erosion control measures, and soil amendments to improve soil structure and fertility. Soil testing and analysis can provide valuable information about these physical characteristics, guiding land use decisions and sustainable soil management practices.

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