How Does The Earth Work: Physical Geology and the Process of Science

It’s about how we know what we know. How Does Earth Work?  covers the traditional breadth of introductory geology topics, but takes the non-traditional and highly effective approach of emphasizing conceptual learning of process rather than rote memorization of facts. Questions drive the development of the concepts:  As with science itself, there are no answers without first asking questions.  As a result, the concepts are introduced and developed in context ("If this is true, then why...?”), which facilitates deeper exploration of and linking between concepts. Illustrations bear much of the weight of explanation; they are as simple as possible, thoughtfully annotated, and paired wherever possible with photos of the concept manifest in nature.


Why Geology? Minerals: Building Blocks of the Planet; Rocks and Rock-Forming Processes; Formation of Magma and Igneous Rocks; Formation of Sediment and Sedimentary Rocks; Formation of Metamorphic Rocks; Earth Materials as Time Keepers; Journey to the Center of Earth; Making Earth; Motion Inside Earth; Deformation of Rocks; Global Tectonics — Plates and Plumes; Tectonics and Surface Relief; Soil Formation and Landscape Stability; Mass Movement: Landscapes in Motion; Streams: Flowing Water Shapes the Landscape; Water Flowing Underground; Glaciers: Sculptors of Continents, Recorders of Climate Change; Shorelines: Changing Landscapes Where Land Meets Sea; Wind: A Global Geologic Process.


A comprehensive reference for geology professionals.