Introduction to Geology

• Welcome to Geology 101

• Setting: Informal, recorded from a comfortable environment.

• Acknowledgement of various learning environments: coffee houses, at home with kids.

Definition of Geology

• Geology: Science that seeks to understand planet Earth.

  • Etymology: "Geo" means Earth; "logy" relates to logic, not just study.

Branches of Geology

• Geology is divided into two main branches:

  • Physical Geology

    • Focuses on the materials constituting Earth.

    • Studies processes operating beneath and on the Earth's surface.

    • Topics include:

      • Rocks and minerals

      • Oceanic and continental structures

      • Interactions with human beings and the solar system.

  • Historical Geology

    • Seeks to understand Earth’s origin and historical development over time.

    • Investigates:

      • The formation of continents and oceans

      • Fossil origins and records.

Course Focus

• The main focus of the course is on physical geology.

• Essential topics early in the course:

  • Crystals, magmas, and lavas

  • Formation of continents and islands, including the Hawaiian Islands.

Visual Examples in Geology

• Lava Sampling

  • Image of a geology student sampling lava at University of Hawaii, Hilo.

  • Importance of safety due to extreme heat of lava (significantly higher than household oven).

• Stratigraphy in Grand Canyon

  • Geologists observing and analyzing rock layers in the Grand Canyon.

  • Differentiates roles:

    • Historical geologists study fossils and stratigraphy.

    • Physical geologists analyze current geological processes.

  • Rock layers represent 'pages in time' that can be studied.

Geology and Human Interaction

• Importance of understanding relationships between people and the natural environment.

• Example: Salt Lake City, Utah

  • Urban development (skyscrapers) juxtaposed with tectonically active mountains.

  • Awareness of natural hazards like earthquakes and mudflows in urban planning.