Hydrogeology/Environmental Geochemistry

This subject has the following teaching availabilities in 2016:

Estimated total time commitment of 170 hours.

One of

Plus two Geology subjects.

(i.e. subjects with subject codes beginning with 'GEOL' or 'ERTH')

None

A knowledge of basic algebra concepts will be assumed in this subject.

Familiarity with basic calculus concepts (e.g. integration, differentiation) will also be helpful for understanding some lecture content.

None

For the purposes of considering request for Reasonable Adjustments under the Disability Standards for Education (Cwth 2005), and Student Support and Engagement Policy, academic requirements for this subject are articulated in the Subject Overview, Learning Outcomes, Assessment and Generic Skills sections of this entry.

It is University policy to take all reasonable steps to minimise the impact of disability upon academic study, and reasonable adjustments will be made to enhance a student's participation in the University's programs. Students who feel their disability may impact on meeting the requirements of this subject are encouraged to discuss this matter with a Faculty Student Adviser and Student Equity and Disability Support: http://services.unimelb.edu.au/disability

This subject will investigate, both qualitatively and quantitatively, the fundamental physical and chemical processes governing groundwater flow and composition, including aquifer properties, regional geology and hydrology, water-rock interactions, and subsurface microbial activity. Field and laboratory methods used to characterize aquifer properties and groundwater chemistry, including well pumping tests, chemical tracers, and major ion and isotope analyses will also be covered. A two-day field excursion will draw together many of these concepts and topics.

The objectives of this subject are to

• present the basic principles of groundwater flow and chemistry in an engaging and accessible way,
• to illustrate these principles through effective hands-on learning practices (including fieldwork),
• to challenge students to conceptualize and describe dynamic groundwater processes in a quantitative way, and
• to reinforce scientific and critical thinking skills.

Upon completion of this subject, students should have a broad yet rigorous understanding of the physical and chemical processes influencing the distribution and quality of groundwater.

• Four equally weighted lab reports of approximately 600 words limit each due in Weeks 3, 5, 7, and 9 (40% total),
• a two-day field trip (April 2-3, 2016) and field report of approximately 600 words limit (10%; due Apr 8th, 2016); and
• and a two-hour comprehensive written final examination of approximately 2000 words limit (50%).

The field trip and final exam are both prescribed (hurdle) requirements for this subject

Nonner, J.C. Introduction to Hydrogeology, 2nd Ed., Taylor & Francis Group PLC, London, UK 2010

A course reader.

This subject potentially can be taken as a breadth subject component for the following courses:

• Bachelor of Arts
• Bachelor of Commerce
• Bachelor of Environments
• Bachelor of Music

You should visit learn more about breadth subjects and read the breadth requirements for your degree, and should discuss your choice with your student adviser, before deciding on your subjects.

Students will have the opportunity to gain/practice the following generic skills: critical thinking, teamwork, data analysis and interpretation, problem solving.

This subject is available for science credit to students enrolled in the BSc (both pre-2008 and new degrees), BASc or a combined BSc course.

Previously known as 625-307 Hydrogeology and Environmental Management (prior to 2009)

Previously known as ERTH30001 Hydrogeology (prior to 2011)

Previously known as ERTH30001 Hydrogeology and Environmental Geology (prior to 2012)

Costs: Fees will be levied for the course reader ($25) and 2-day field excursion ($100 covers transportation, 1-night’s lodging and lunches).