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Geology as Science
Geology is, simply speaking, the study of the Earth. Geologists
study how the Earth was formed in the first place, how the surface
of the Earth came to be shaped the way it is, and how the rocks
on Earth affect the people on Earth. Geologists study rocks deep
within the Earth, sediments on the surface of the Earth, and the
shape of valleys, streams, and mountains. Geology is a multidisciplinary
science. Geologists need a good understanding of Biology, Chemistry,
Physics, Meteorology, Oceanography, Fluid Dynamics, and the list
goes on.
Geology as Detective Work
Geology is a science different from most. Unlike Chemistry or Biology,
it is difficult to run a 'controlled' experiment. One cannot simply
recreate the Himalayas to see how they got there. Geologists are
more like detectives. They come upon the scene of geological activity
and have to determine how it got to be that way by looking for evidence
and then by deduction they make an interpretation of the events
that led to the current state. In fact, Scotland Yard has been known
to hire Geologists because they have the highly tuned powers of
deductive reasoning that are the basis for good detective work.
Geology as Shaper of Human Events
Although it may seem a bit esoteric, geology has an impact on all
our lives. Geology determines where homes are built (is the land
firm, flat, stable?). Geology has an impact on our economy and history
(the California Gold Rush, the silver necessary for processing your
photographs). Geology can also create natural hazards such as volcanoes,
earthquakes, and landslides that threaten people's lives.
Why Study Geology
Geology is a very exciting science. It is something people are in
contact with daily. Geology is good for people who like solving
puzzles. Geologists are people who spend a lot of time outside,
yet they apply state of the art technology to solving geologic puzzles.
In this course, through the study of Geology or Ecology, you will
get outside to conduct your own research. If you like working outside,
solving puzzles, and marveling at the wonder of the natural landscape,
you may want to look into Geology further. Perhaps there is a career
for you!
Writing Assignment
How are you affected by the Geology around you?
Step outside and look around, think about your daily life and life
in your community. Click on the link below to write 400-500 words
on how Geology affects your daily life. Then check in with the rest
of the students in the discussion group to see how it has affected
them.
Geology
and You: write your answer here
Go
to Lesson 2: Volcanoes >>
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