Most FutureLearn courses run multiple times. Every run of a course has a set start date but you can join it and work through it after it starts. Find out more The course is suitable for anyone with a general interest in chemistry; no previous knowledge or experience is required. If you are working in the field of science and would like to practice and improve your science writing skills, this course is designed to support you as a professional. By completing all aspects of the course you will have achieved 14 hours of CPD time. If you intend to complete the Discovering Science program , it is recommended that you complete Discovering Science: Science Writing before starting this course, however this course can still be studied independently. You can use the hashtag #FLatmoschem to talk about this course on social media.

Topics Covered

• The chemistry of atmospheric pollution.
• The role that radiation and greenhouse gases play in atmospheric chemistry.
• The role of chemical feedbacks.
• An introduction to the FAGE container.
• The research conducted using the FAGE container to predict climate and air quality.
• Chemical solutions for reducing the amount of Carbon Dioxide in our atmosphere.
• The influence of humans on recent climate change.
• Assignment: prepare interview questions to demonstrate an understanding of lowering CO2 emissions.
• The role of chemistry in understanding the atmospheres in the solar system.
• Space exploration in the media.
• The evolution of technology in aiding knowledge of planetary atmospheres.
• The Cassini-Huygens space mission.
• Similarities and differences between Titan’s and Earth’s atmospheres.
• The search for life or a habitable planet.
• Assignment: a peer-reviewed task to write a press release about a space mission.