Geology 1st page

An 1875 geological map of Europe, compiled by the Belgian geologist André Dumont

Geology (from the Ancient Greek yn. ge ("earth") and

-Aoyia, -logia, ("study of", "discourse") is an earth

science concerned with the solid Earth, the rocks of

which it is composed, and the processes by which

they change over time.

Geology can also include the study of the solid features of any terrestrial planet or natural satellite such as Mars or the Moon.

Modern geology significantly overlaps all other earth

sciences, including hydrology and the atmospheric

sciences, and so is treated as one major aspect of

integrated earth system science and planetary

science.

Geology describes the structure of the Earth on and

beneath its surface, and the processes that have shaped that structure. It also provides tools to determine the relative and absolute ages of rocks found in a given location, and also to describe the histories of those rocks. By combining these tools, geologists are able to chronicle the geological history of the Earth as a whole, and also to

demonstrate the age of the Earth.

Geology provides the primary evidence for plate tectonics.

the evolutionary history of life, and the Earth's past climates.

Geologists use a wide variety of methods to understand the Earth's structure and evolution, including field work, rock description, geophysical techniques, chemical analysis, physical experiments, and numerical modelling.

In practical terms, geology is important for mineral and hydrocarbon exploration and exploitation, evaluating water resources. understanding of natural hazards, the remediation of environmental problems, and providing insights into past climate change.

Geology is a major academic discipline, and it plays an important role in geotechnical engineering.

Sarychev Peak Volcano erupts June 12, 2009, on Matua

Island