Based on the "International Symposium of Molecular Environmental Soil
Science at the Interfaces in the Earth's Critical Zone," this book
focuses on the Critical Zone supporting life at the Earth's surface with
emphasis on the new and emerging subject area of molecular environmental
soil science. Advances in research methodology, the use of synchrotron
radiation in particular, are extensively reviewed. Roles of microbes,
biomolecules, and environmental nanoparticles in mineral
transformations, metal cycling, degradation of natural and anthropogenic
organic compounds are also extensively reviewed. It is unique in terms
of facilitating the integration of contributions from traditionally
separate disciplines and adding a molecular and nanoparticle (therefore
chemical) dimension to a field of endeavour that has traditionally been
viewed on a different scale (dimension). It will also contribute to
identifying knowledge gaps, providing future research directions and
promoting research and education at the molecular level in this
extremely important and challenging area of science for years to come.
The IUPAC Project Committee noted that the Conference identifies, and
builds on, the need to view and understand the Critical Zone at the
molecular level. The book will be an invaluable reference for research
and education.
