Water 1

This course introduces the occurrence, movement and quality of water over the land surface of the earth, in particular as it affects and sustains life. The course takes a geographical, descriptive approach towards introducing the global hydrological cycle and water budget, hydrological processes in river catchments, groundwater in natural catchments and polders, and the aquatic ecosystem. An important focus of the course is on the interdependencies between water quantity and quality in space and time. Tutorials are employed to gain experience with basic concepts and calculations, as well as to discuss the course contents with the lecturers.

After successful completion of this course students are expected to be able to:

• describe the role of water in landscapes and society;
• explain basic patterns and processes in aquatic ecosystems;
• interpret basic concepts of water flow in surface water, groundwater and catchments;
• estimate basic water flow in surface water, groundwater and catchments;
• relate hydrological processes and water quality;
• investigate how knowledge of water systems is implemented in water management.

Assumed Knowledge:
High school level of mathematics