Lecture # 01

Introduction of Geology

•          Geology

–      Definition of Geology

–      Branches of Geology

•       Origin of Galaxy & Solar System

•       Characteristics of Solar System

•       Our Planet Earth

What is geology????????????????

Geology is the study of the Earth, its processes, its materials, its history, and its effect on humans and life in general.
 

What is Geology ?

Comprehensive Definition: The science that deals with the study of the planet Earth –

the materials of which it is made the processes that act to change these materials from one form to another, and the history recorded by these materials;

the forces acting to deform the outer layers of the earth and create ocean basins and continents;

the processes that modify the Earth’s surface;

the application of geologic knowledge to the search for useful materials and the understanding of the relationship of geologic processes to people.

Branches of Geology

Geology is composed of a myriad assortment of sub-disciplines covering the various spheres

Branches of Geology!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Several fields of Geology can be grouped under the major headings of :- 

  -Physical Geology

               and

  -Historical geology.

“Physical Geology”

•       Mineralogy - the study of the chemical composition and structure of minerals.

•       Petrology - the study of the composition and origin of rocks.

•       Geomorphology - the study of the origin of landforms and their modification by dynamic processes.

•       Geochemistry - the study of the chemical composition of earth materials and the chemical changes that occur within the earth and on its surface.

•           Structural geology- the study of the forces that deform the earth's rocks and the description and mapping of deformed rock bodies.

•           Economic geology - the study of the exploration and recovery of natural resources, such as ores and petroleum.

•           Engineering geology- the study of the interactions of the earth's crust with human-made structures such as tunnels, mines, dams, bridges, and building foundations.

“Historical Geology”

•       Paleontology - the systematic study of past life forms.

      • Stratigraphy - layered rocks and their interrelationships.

•       Paleogeography - locations of ancient land masses and their boundaries.

    Geologic mapping - the superimposing of geologic information upon existing topographic maps.

Why study geology or tusk of geology……….

♣ Find abundant supplies of clean water for drinking and other purposes.

♣ Search for valuable deposits of natural resources such as iron, gold, coal, gas and oil etc. They conduct regional studies which may shed light on the potential for undiscovered resources.

♣Geologists also work to solve problems involving pollution and waste disposal, and provide valuable input in land-use planning.

♣They determine the stability of building sites

♣ They also try to minimize the threat to communities at risk from geologic hazards. Geologists study and help to mitigate floods, swelling soils, and landslides etc.