Chapter 1: Fundamentals of Environmental Geology

What factors support life on Earth?

The factors include a suitable temperature range for water in solid, liquid, and gas states, a retained atmosphere that sustains the water cycle, and mechanisms to eliminate CO2 from the atmosphere.

What does the tragedy of the commons refer to?

It describes a situation in which individual self-interest results in the depletion of shared resources.

Define geology.

Geology is the scientific study focusing on the solid Earth, its materials, and the processes that shape it.

What are the two main branches of geology?

The main branches are physical geology and historical geology.

What is involved in the scientific method?

It includes the processes of data collection, hypothesis formulation, and rigorous hypothesis testing.

What is the foundational theory of geology?

Plate tectonics theory, which explains the dynamics of Earth's crustal plate movement and its considerable effects on climate and the biosphere.

How do scientific theories and hypotheses contrast with each other?

A theory offers a broad explanation that connects various hypotheses, whereas a hypothesis is a specific proposed explanation.

What terms beg the investigation of geologic hazards?

These are natural or artificial geological conditions that present risks to human life or property.

How is pollution viewed within geology?

Pollution is recognized as a hazard impacting ecosystems and human health, primarily driven by anthropogenic activities.

What is the focus of environmental geology?

It centers on addressing issues stemming from human interactions with the geological environment.

Why do we need to understand geologic time?

Understanding geologic time is essential for classifying rocks by age, thereby aiding in the comprehension of Earth's history.

What does catastrophism propose?

It is the theory asserting that Earth's features were created through abrupt, catastrophic events.

Describe the principle of uniformitarianism.

It suggests that the Earth's characteristics were formed through slow, gradual processes over extensive periods of time.

How is environmental risk defined?

It denotes the likelihood of adverse consequences for individuals or society resulting from natural events or human actions affecting the environment.

In what way does time scale affect risk perception?

Risk perception is conditioned by time scales, with immediate threats being more easily recognized than gradual changes.

How are population growth and resource sustainability interconnected?

Rapid population growth can surpass resource availability, leading to concerns regarding sustainability.

What is the ecological footprint?

It represents the productive land area required to support an individual, with developed nations typically having larger footprints than those in development.

What issues were central to the environmental movements of the 1960s and 70s?

These movements focused on legislation aimed at ensuring clean air and water, alongside protection against environmental degradation.

What does sustainability signify in the context of environmental science?

Sustainability refers to the capacity to exist within Earth's resource limits while safeguarding resource availability for future generations.

How does geology relate to Earth's materials?

Geology examines the composition, structure, and characteristics of Earth's materials, such as rocks and minerals, to understand the processes that shape our planet.

What purpose does the geologic time scale serve?

It provides a framework for categorizing Earth's historical events based on geological and biological changes.

What does risk management in relation to environmental risks encompass?

It involves evaluating potential environmental risks and developing strategies to mitigate adverse effects on society and individuals.

What constitutes environmental risk?

Environmental risk pertains to the potential for negative outcomes for humans or society stemming from natural processes or human activities affecting the environment.

What are Earth systems?

Earth systems consist of interconnected spheres, including the geosphere, hydrosphere, atmosphere, and biosphere, whose interactions shape Earth’s processes and conditions.