1. An Introduction to Geology
Chapter 1
Essentials of Geology

2. By the end of this chapter…
I will be able to distinguish between physical and historical geology and describe the connections between people and geology
I will be able to describe Earth’s internal structure
I will be able to sketch, label, and explain the Rock Cycle
Outline the stages in the formation of our solar system
By the end of this chapter…

3. Physical vs. Historical Geology
Physical Geology
The study of Earth’s rocks, minerals, and soils and how they have formed through time
Historical Geology
The origin of Earth and its development through time

4. Geology, People, and the Environment
Geologic (Natural) Hazards
Volcanoes, floods, tsunamis, earthquakes, landslides
Geologic hazards are natural processes
Only become hazards when people try to live in areas where they occur
Humans impact geologic processes
Magnitude and frequency of flooding
Building cities, constructing dams

5. Earth’s Internal Structure
Crust
Earth’s thin, rocky outer layer
Oceanic and continental
22-40 miles thick
Mantle
Solid, rocky shell that extends to ~1800 miles
Upper mantle (solid)
~410 miles thick
Lower mantle (liquid)
~1400 miles thick

6. Earth’s Internal Structure continued..
Core
Iron + nickel
Outer core (liquid)
1410 miles thick
Inner core (solid)
750 miles thick
**Figure 6 page 8

7. Formation of our Solar System
com/watch?v=x1QTc5 YeO6w

8. Formation of our solar system (Nebular Theory)
Dust and gases (nebula) 1
Nebula flattened into a rotating disk 2
Cooling of Nebular cloud 3
Repeated collisions
-tiny particles came together to form planets 4

9. Nebular Theory
Pg 17- Essentials of Geology

10. Rock Cycle Three main rock types:
What are they?
Each rock type is linked by a process that acts upon it

11. Rock Cycle Essentials of Geology- pg. 23
m/watch?v=BsIHV__voM k

12. Systems
Open System
Closed System