Seminar: Geochemical modeling (FSU Jena)

At the Friedrich-Schiller-University Jena (Institute for Geosciences) an annual course on geochemical modeling is offered.

Content

The course includes an introduction to the thermodynamic description of aqueous solutions using the geochemical software Geochemist's Workbench®. An introduction to the different modules of the geochemical code is given using practical examples such as the creation of aquatic speciations, mixing of solutions, solubilities (gases/solid phases), temperature influences, the application of the Pitzer activity model for saline systems or sorption by using Surface Complexation Modelling. In more complex examples, the application of thermodynamics and kinetics of natural systems (soils, aquifers, sediments) for the generation of stability diagrams, reaction paths, reactive transport models is discussed. The correct use and critical consideration of thermodynamic databases and activity models is taught and the necessary file formats are discussed. Furthermore, the definition and characteristic properties of natural systems, e.g. equilibrium, nonlinearity, heterogeneity, diversity and their influences in modelling, consequences for the extent and speed of interactions and reactions in natural systems as well as interaction and interdependence of physical, chemical and biological processes are considered.

Target group

The course is open to students of the FSU Jena as well as to interested persons from other universities. Since the number of places is limited, registration is required.

Contact

For questions regarding registration and organizational topics, please contact Prof. Dr. Juraj Majzlan, for course content please contact Dr. Frank Bok.

Teaching form

• Block course: 32 SWS (4 days),

Exam

• The course is followed by an exam in the form of some modeling tasks to be solved.

Literature

• Craig Bethke: "Geochemical and Biogeochemical Reaction Modeling" 3^rd Edition, ISSN: 978-1108790864