Ympäristögeoke

Ympäristögeoke refers to the field of environmental geochemistry, which studies the chemical interactions between the Earth's solid components, water, and atmosphere, and their impact on the environment. This interdisciplinary science explores how natural geological processes and anthropogenic activities influence the distribution, movement, and fate of chemical elements and compounds in the environment. Key areas of focus include the study of pollutants in soil, water, and air, their sources, transport mechanisms, and potential risks to ecosystems and human health.

Environmental geochemistry also investigates the behavior of trace elements, heavy metals, and organic contaminants. It examines processes such as weathering, mineral dissolution and precipitation, adsorption, and redox reactions, which control the speciation and mobility of these substances. Understanding these processes is crucial for assessing environmental contamination, developing remediation strategies, and managing natural resources sustainably. The field employs various analytical techniques to measure the concentration and form of elements and compounds in environmental samples. Applications range from understanding natural geochemical cycles to addressing issues like acid mine drainage, pesticide contamination, and the impacts of industrial waste.