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Introduction To Earth Science

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28 views20 pages

Introduction To Earth Science

lecture

Uploaded by

Larry Mostoles
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Download as PPTX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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Introduction

to Earth
Science
LARRY MOSTOLES, PhD
What is
Earth
Science
?
What is Earth
Science?
•Earth Science is the study
of the Earth and its various
systems, including its
atmosphere, oceans, and
the solid Earth itself. It is an
interdisciplinary field that
seeks to understand the
processes that shape our
planet, the materials that
make it up, and its place in
the universe. 3
Branche
s of
Earth
Science
Branches of Earth Science

Geology:
 Geology is the study of the solid Earth,
including its materials, structures, processes,
and history. Geologists explore how rocks
and minerals form, how landscapes evolve,
and how Earth's internal processes like plate
tectonics drive the formation of mountains,
earthquakes, and volcanoes.
5
Branches of Earth Science
Meteorology:
 Meteorology focuses on the atmosphere and
the processes that produce weather and
climate. Meteorologists study the dynamics of
the atmosphere, weather patterns, and the
effects of human activities on climate.
Understanding meteorology is crucial for
weather forecasting and addressing climate
change. 6
Branches of Earth Science

Oceanography:
 Oceanography is the study of Earth's
oceans, covering aspects like marine life,
ocean currents, waves, and the chemical
composition of seawater. This field is vital
for understanding the role of oceans in
climate regulation, the carbon cycle, and
the health of marine ecosystems. 7
Branches of Earth Science

Astronomy:
 While often considered a separate science,
astronomy is a key component of Earth Science
as it provides insights into Earth's position in
space, the characteristics of other celestial
bodies, and the broader universe.
Understanding Earth's relationship with the sun
and moon, for example, helps explain
phenomena like tides and seasons. 8
The Importance of
Earth Science
The Importance of Earth
Science
Natural Hazards
Earth Science helps us understand and
predict natural hazards like earthquakes,
tsunamis, hurricanes, and volcanic
eruptions, which can save lives and
minimize property damage.
on Earth, the formation of continents, and
changes in climate over millions of years.
10
The Importance of Earth
Science
Resource Management
Earth Scientists play a crucial role in
locating and managing natural
resources like minerals, fossil fuels,
and water, ensuring they are used
sustainably.

11
The Importance of Earth
Science
Environmental
Protection
By studying Earth's processes and human
impact on them, Earth Science informs
efforts to protect and restore natural
environments, addressing issues like
pollution, deforestation, and climate
change. 12
The Importance of Earth
Science
Understanding Earth's
History
Earth Science provides a window into
the past, helping us understand the
history of life on Earth, the formation
of continents, and changes in climate
over millions of years.
13
The Scientific Method
in Earth Science
14
The Scientific Method is a
systematic approach used by
scientists, including those in
Earth Science, to investigate
natural phenomena, test
hypotheses, and develop
theories. 15
Steps of the Scientific Method in Earth
Science:
1. Observation
2. Question
3. Hypothesis
4. Experimentation and Data
Collection
5. Analysis
6. Conclusion
7. Communication
8. Repetition and Peer Review 16
Application
of the
Scientific
Method in
Earth
Application of the Scientific Method in Earth 18

Science

Earth scientists observe changes in


Studyin global temperatures, sea levels,
and ice cover.
g They formulate hypotheses about
Climate the causes, such as increased
greenhouse gas emissions.
Change Collect data from ice cores,
satellite measurements, and
climate models to test these
hypotheses.
Application of the Scientific Method in Earth 19

Science
Observing patterns of seismic
activity, scientists hypothesize
about the relationship between
tectonic plate movements and
Understandin earthquakes.
g
Earthquakes They gather data from
seismographs and GPS
measurements to analyze
these patterns and draw
conclusions about earthquake
risks.
Application of the Scientific Method in Earth 20

Science

Geologists observe rock


Explorin formations and hypothesize
about the presence of mineral
g deposits.

Mineral
Resource They test these hypotheses
through field surveys, drilling,
s and lab analysis to determine
the location and size of
mineral resources.

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