Program Overview

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Course Overview

The course "Ocean Space: Marine Biogeochemical Processes" (KJ3051) is a second-degree level course offered at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU). The course covers descriptions of known biogeochemical processes and scientific challenges at the interfaces of seawater, landmasses, sediment, and atmosphere.

Course Details

• Credits: 7.5
• Level: Second degree level
• Course start: Autumn 2025
• Duration: 1 semester
• Language of instruction: English
• Location: Trondheim
• Examination arrangement: Home examination

Course Content

The course covers synthesis and extension of the information provided in marine chemistry, geochemistry, physical oceanography, and biology. It deals with the theory of various field techniques, including sample collection and instrumental methods for seawater analysis. Specific topics include:

• Chemical composition of seawater
• Oceans' role in the global biogeochemical cycling of selected elements
• Biogeochemical cycles of macro and micro nutrients
• Trace elements and their isotopes as tracers for physical, biological, and geological processes
• Physical Oceanography, coupling climate and ocean currents and biogeochemistry
• Trace elements toxicity for marine bioata
• Photochemical processes in seawater
• Sediments, sediment-water interface, and their role in the oceanic cycle
• Equilibrium and kinetic perspectives of marine processes
• Coastal systems and geochemical processes

Learning Outcome

After finishing the course, candidates will have knowledge about marine biogeochemical processes and scientific challenges. They will also have integrated and thorough knowledge of chemical processes in the marine environment. The students shall acquire abilities to apply acquired knowledge, critically present and discuss scientific topics, communicate with colleagues, and work as a group member on a specific scientific topic.

Learning Methods and Activities

• Lectures and seminars
• Expected work load: 200-225 hours

Evaluation

• For exams during a term without lectures in this course, written examination may be changed to oral examination.

Recommended Previous Knowledge

Basic education in chemistry or biology from universities or comparable is required. The course builds partly on knowledge corresponding to KJ2072 Environmental Chemistry and BI2060 Marine Ecology.

Course Materials

Lectures and scientific publications will be announced at the start of the semester.

Credit Reductions

The course has academic overlap with BI2061, and if taken, will result in a credit reduction.

Subject Areas

• Environmental Chemistry
• Marine Biology
• Marine Topics

Examination Details

• Examination arrangement: Home examination
• Grade: Letter grades
• Ordinary examination - Autumn 2025 and Spring 2026: Home examination with a weighting of 100/100, duration of 4 hours, and exam system Inspera Assessment.