Geo1045 SG 1 introduction

Scope of Geology

Geology, Oceanography, and Atmospheric Science.

Geology

The study of our planet with a focus on the materials that compose it.

Oceanography

The study of water and life in the oceans as well as how the water moves.

Atmospheric Science

The study of the air layer that surrounds the earth.

Applications of Geology (industries)

Oil and Gas Industry, Engineering, Mining, Non-Profit Agency, Government Agency

Earth System

Our planet's land, water, atmosphere, and living inhabitants are dynamically interconnected, and materials constantly cycle among various living and nonliving reservoirs on, above, and within the planet.

Internal Energy

Heat from the Earth's interior, generated by radioactive decay and residual heat from the planet's formation, drives processes like melting, metamorphism, and igneous rock formation. Examples Include Compression and Radioactivity.

External Energy

The sun's energy powers weathering, erosion, and sediment transportation processes. Examples include Solar Radiation, Nuclear Energy, and Fossil Fuels.

Scientific Method

A series of steps followed to solve problems, including collecting data, formulating a hypothesis, testing the hypothesis, and stating conclusions.

Plate Tectonics Theory

The theory that the lithosphere is broken up into large plates that move and then rejoin; considered the unifying theory of geology.

Layers of the Earth

Crust, Mantle, Outer and Inner Core

Crust

The smallest thickness of the 4 layers, ranging from 3-43 miles. The layers are thinner under the ocean and thicker under the continents. This Layer primarily composed of granite and other lighter rocks. The temperature of this layer ranges from the surface temperature to about 400 C (752 F) at the boundary of the mantle.

Mantle

Thickest of the 4 layers at ~2,900 kilometers (1800 miles). This Layer consists mostly of silicate materials rich in iron and magnesium. The temperature in this layer ranges from about 400-4000 C (752-7243 F) near the boundary of the outer core. This layer is also divided into an upper and lower half. The upper portion consists of the asthenosphere (semi-fluid layer that allows tectonic plates to move).

Outer Core

Second thickest layer at 2200 kilometers (1367 miles). This layer is mostly composed of molten iron and nickle.This layer also has a temperature range between 4000-5700C. It also a liquid and is responsible for earth’s magnetic field through the movement of molten iron.

Inner Core

Second smallest Layer at around 1220 kilometers. It is composed primarily of solid iron and nickel. The temperature is the hottest of the 4 layers at 5700 degrees C. Interestingly enough this layer remains solid despite the thermal energy due to the immense pressure exerted by the above layers.

Natural Change

changes occur without human influence (e.g., volcanic eruptions, earthquakes, glaciations).

Anthropogenic changes

changes driven by human activity (e.g., deforestation, climate change, pollution).