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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Water pollution

Water pollution refers to the contamination of water bodies, such as lakes, rivers, oceans, and groundwater, by harmful substances or pollutants. It occurs when pollutants are discharged or enter the water environment, leading to a degradation of water quality and negatively impacting aquatic ecosystems, human health, and various economic activities dependent on clean water.

Sources of water pollution can be broadly classified into two categories: point sources and non-point sources.

  1. Point sources: These are specific and identifiable sources of pollution that discharge pollutants directly into water bodies. Examples include industrial facilities, wastewater treatment plants, oil refineries, and sewage outlets. These sources often have permits and regulations to control the types and amounts of pollutants they can release, but improper management or accidents can still result in pollution.

  2. Non-point sources: These are diffuse sources of pollution that are difficult to trace back to a single point of origin. Non-point sources include agricultural runoff, urban stormwater runoff, and atmospheric deposition. When it rains, water washes over surfaces and picks up pollutants like fertilizers, pesticides, oil, and sediment, carrying them into water bodies.

The pollutants causing water pollution can vary widely and may include:

  1. Chemicals: Industrial effluents, agricultural chemicals, and household products can introduce harmful chemicals into water. Examples include heavy metals, pesticides, fertilizers, pharmaceuticals, and industrial solvents.

  2. Nutrients: Excessive amounts of nutrients, such as nitrogen and phosphorus, can lead to eutrophication. This process results in the overgrowth of algae, which depletes oxygen levels in the water, suffocating aquatic life.

  3. Sediments: Soil erosion, construction activities, and deforestation can lead to sedimentation in water bodies. Sediments cloud the water, disrupting aquatic ecosystems and harming fish, plants, and other organisms.

  4. Pathogens: Bacteria, viruses, and parasites from human and animal waste can contaminate water, causing waterborne diseases like cholera, typhoid, and dysentery.

  5. Thermal pollution: Discharge of heated water from power plants and industrial processes can raise water temperatures, adversely affecting aquatic life and ecosystems.

The consequences of water pollution can be severe. It can harm aquatic organisms, destroy habitats, reduce biodiversity, and disrupt the balance of ecosystems. Additionally, contaminated water poses a significant risk to human health when used for drinking, bathing, or irrigation. Waterborne diseases are a common consequence of polluted water, particularly in areas with inadequate sanitation and poor access to clean water.

Preventing and mitigating water pollution requires a combination of regulatory measures, technological advancements, and public awareness. Efforts to reduce water pollution include stricter environmental regulations, improved industrial wastewater treatment, proper waste management, implementation of agricultural best practices, and promotion of sustainable water use. Public education and community involvement play a crucial role in raising awareness about the importance of clean water and encouraging responsible behavior to prevent pollution.

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