Essentials of geology

Synopsis

Chapter 1 An Introduction to Geology The Science of Geology Geology, People, and the Environment Historical Notes About Geology             Catastrophism             The Birth of Modern Geology Geologic Time The Nature of Scientific Inquiry             Hypothesis             Theory             Scientific Methods Earth’s Spheres             Hydrosphere             Atmosphere             Biosphere             Geosphere Earth as a System             Earth System Science             The Earth System The Rock Cycle: One of Earth’s Subsystems             The Basic Cycle             Alternative Paths Earth’s Internal Structure             Layers Defined by Composition Early Evolution of Earth                        Origin of Planet Earth             Formation of Earth’s Layered Structure             Layers Defined by Physical Properties The Face of Earth             Features of the Continents             Features of the Ocean Basins Dynamic Earth             The Theory of Plate Tectonics             Plate Boundaries   Box 1.1 Do Glaciers Move? An Application of the Scientific Method