Marine Chemistry Seminar
This MIT OpenCourseWare seminar surveys marine chemistry through student-led discussion of primary research literature rather than standard lectures. Topics include the chemical composition of seawater, biogeochemical cycling of elements, air-sea gas exchange, and the methods oceanographers use to measure trace elements and isotopes in the ocean. Students read and present published papers, tracing how experimental techniques have shaped current theories about ocean chemistry and its links to climate and biology. Course materials include a syllabus, reading lists drawn from journal articles, and guidelines for student presentations and discussion leadership. The format assumes some prior background in chemistry or earth science and works best for advanced undergraduates or graduate students who want direct exposure to how marine chemists build and test hypotheses. As with all MIT OpenCourseWare offerings, the materials are free to use and no certificate is issued.