Environmental chemistry
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Contents
Introduction to Environmental Chemistry
Environmental chemistry is the study of the sources, reactions, transport, effects, and fates of chemical species in the hydrosphere, lithosphere, atmosphere, and biosphere (ref. 1991, Manahan, Stanley E., Environmental Chemistry, 5th Ed., Lewis Publishing, Chelsea, MI). Various subcategories of environmental chemistry include environmental biochemistry, environmental organic chemistry, geochemistry, atmospheric chemistry, and aquatic chemistry. As one can see, environmental chemistry means many things to many people. But all would agree that this science seeks to understand our world through the application of chemical and physical parameters of elements and molecules to systems large and small. For example, this might involve the migration of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) from the atmosphere to water and its accumulation in biota. Or it might involve the degradation of chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) in the stratosphere. Or it might involve the diagenesis of organic matter into coal.
Careers in Environmental Chemistry
Environmental chemists work in a variety of fields, including natural resource management, and environmental consulting, environmental regulation, and as environmental compliance personnel for industries. Professional preparation for this filed requires an undergraduate degree in chemistry, biochemistry, or related fields and a MS or PhD in environmental chemistry.
Further Reading
Additional information about environmental chemistry may be found at the following web sites:
