physical geology lecture- w c j c（物理地质课- w c j c）.docVIP

Physical Geology Lecture GEOL 1303 Study Guide for Exam I I. Define Geology “Geology” means: Geos = Greek for “Earth”, and Logos = Greek for “the study of” Geology is considered an “Eclectic” science, drawing upon information from: Chemistry Physics Astronomy Biology Mathematics Ecology Etc. II. Two Main Subdivisions of Geology: 1. Historical Geology (usually 2nd semester) - centered around Earth’s History Stratigraphy – the study of the strata or layers of the earth Sedimentology – study of deposition of eroded earth materials Paleontology – study of ancient life through the interpretation of “Fossils” (remains or indications of past life that must be at least 10,000 years old) Geochronology – the science of dating the earth materials and events throughout earth’s history Geo-ecology – interpreting the past ecosystems of the earth: climate, sea level, plant and animal life, etc. Tectonics Mountain Building Processes – the study of the movements of the earth’s crustal plates, and how these changes affect surface processes and Life. Historical Geology is concerned with explaining the “history” of the earth in aspects usually concerning the formation of continents, oceans, etc. and how those processes effected and still effect Life on the earth. 2. Physical Geology – centered around the Chemical and Physical aspects of the earth Geochemistry – the chemical makeup of magma, lava, minerals, rocks, etc. Mineralogy – the study of the chemical makeup and occurrence of minerals Petrology – the study of the formation of rocks (which are comprised of minerals) Vulcanology - the study of volcanics Seismology – the study of seismic (earthquake) waves Seismic Tomography – the study of the interior of the earth indirectly by studying the behavior of seismic waves Tectonics – the study of the formation of the continental plates and the mechanics of their movements Oceanography – the study of the chemical and physical aspects of the ear