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Geology Soil Science II

Course developer

Replaced course

LauZ2058 [GLAU2058] Geology Soil Science II

Course abstract

The study course provide knowledge of soil forming processes and factors, soil profile development, soil properties, genesis and classification, ecological functions.The aim of learning course is get to know the soil, using it rationally and protecting as important and indispensable component of the ecosystem.

Learning outcomes and their assessment

Knowledge and understanding about the basic soil formation processes, soil genesis, soil properties, about soil classification. To obtain skills in morphological, physical and chemical analytical methods, in critical analysis of obtained information, in data processing and interpretation metodology. Development of ability for decision making and advisory activities in field of soil related issues.

Course Content(Calendar)

Full-time studies
1 Introduction. (1 h)
2 Soil formation factors. (2 h)
3 Soil organic matter. (1 h)
4 Chemical composition of soil. (2 h)
5 Colloidal properties of the soil. (1 h)
6 Soil solution. (1 h)
7 Soil structure. (2 h)
8 Morphological properties of the soil. (1 h)
9 Overall physical and physico-mechanical properties of the soil. (1 h)
10 Thermal and aerophysical properties of the soil. (1 h)
11 Hydrophysical properties of the soil. (2 h)
12 Soil genesis and evolution. (1 h)
13 Structure of the soil profile. (2 h)
14 Soil classification. (1 h)
15 Latvian soils. (2 h)
16 Soil degradation. (1 h)

On part-time studies:
All topics specified for full-time attendance are implemented, but the number of contact hours is 1/2 from the number of indicated hours, as well as the amount of field work is reduced, but all sections of laboratory work are implemented.

Requirements for awarding credit points

The type of examination shall be included with a check mark. 2 tests during semeste must be successfully inscribed, counted against all laboratory work. Checking job ratings must be greater than 12 points to receive a battery offset mark (if lower - a written test as part of the entire programme).

Description of the organization and tasks of students’ independent work

1. The student must independently acquire theoretical knowledge of the next subject of the lecture and be able to discuss the lecture with the teacher.
2. The development of practical works takes place in the audience. The descriptive part of the work to be submitted, the graphic material and the design thereof shall be performed independently in conformity with the task, the regulations for the drawing up of student work and other instructions.
3. The development of laboratory works takes place in the audience. The descriptive part of the work to be submitted, the graphic material and the design thereof shall be performed independently in conformity with the task, the regulations for the drawing up of student work and other instructions.

Criteria for Evaluating Learning Outcomes

The final writen test shall be organised for those students who have obtained a lower mark than 6 points in the joint evaluation of the control works.

Compulsory reading

1. Nikodemus O., Kārkliņš A., Kļaviņš M., Melecis V. Augsnes ilgtspējīga izmantošana un aizsardzība. Rīga: LU Akadēmiskais apgāds, 2008. 254 lpp.
2. Latvijas augšņu noteicējs. A. Kārkliņa red. Jelgava: LLU, 2009. 240 lpp.
3. Augsnes diagnostika un apraksts. Sast. A. Kārkliņš. Jelgava: LLU, 2008. 336 lpp.
4. Ģeoloģija, augsne, agroķīmija: Metodiskie norādījumi mācību praksei. Prof. A. Kārkliņa red. Jelgava: LLU, 2008. 88 lpp.

Further reading

1. Stinkule A., Kļaviņš M. Ģeoķīmijas pamati. Rīga: LU, 2000. 255 lpp.
2. Encyclopedia of Soils in the Environment. Ed. in chief D. Hillel. Amsterdam ... [etc.]: Elsevier Academic Press, 2005. Vol. I: 548 p.; vol. II: 542 p., vol. III: 570 p., vol. IV: 459 p.
3. Soil Atlas of Europe. European Soil Bureau Network, European Commission. Luxembourg: Office for Official Publications of the European Communities, 2005. 128 p.

Notes

Compulsory study course for students of the professional higher education bachelor study program “Environment and Water Management”