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Using Oceans to Fight Global Warming?

By Joshua D. Hartman, Jack F. Eichler

Using Oceans to Fight Global Warming?


 

Abstract

This problem-based case study explores the scientific issues surrounding the use of large scale iron fertilization as a means of decreasing atmospheric levels of carbon dioxide.  A PowerPoint presentation introduces a New York Times article about a California businessman who chartered a fishing boat to dump 100 tons of iron dust into the Northern Pacific Ocean as a "state-of-the-art study." This was done without consulting scientific or political authorities. Students are then given two primary literature articles selected to help them understand the application of acid base chemistry and chemical equilibrium to an interesting issue connected to both the global economy and global climate change. This case study is designed for a second semester/second quarter general chemistry course, and is generally presented after the units on chemical equilibrium and acid/base chemistry have been covered. It could also be adapted for high school advance chemistry courses, non-majors introductory chemistry courses at the university level, and/or introductory courses in analytical or environmental chemistry.

   

Date Posted

07/25/2014

Overview

Objectives

  • Highlight the relevance of chemistry to current world issues.
  • Apply basic chemical knowledge to complex, multifaceted problems.
  • Develop the ability to critically analyze primary literature and draw conclusions based on the data and evidence contained therein.
  • Develop the ability to communicate scientific and technical concepts in both written and verbal form.
  • Improve the development of fundamental chemistry skills such as analyzing chemical equilibrium, dimensional analysis, and determining pH.

Keywords

Chemical reactions; chemical equilibrium; acid-base chemistry; climate change; carbon sequestration; global warming; iron fertilization; ocean acidification; oceans

  

Subject Headings

Chemistry (General)
Earth Science
Environmental Science
Marine Science / Oceanography

EDUCATIONAL LEVEL

Undergraduate lower division

  

FORMAT

PDF, PowerPoint

   

TOPICAL AREAS

Policy issues, Scientific argumentation

   

LANGUAGE

English

   

TYPE/METHODS

Analysis (Issues), Dilemma/Decision, Journal Article, Problem-Based Learning

 

 

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