Science for Nonscientists

Geology for Nongeologists introduces basic concepts in geology: how rocks, minerals, and fossils are classified, how wind, ice, and water have shaped the earth, how mountains are formed, and how volcanoes, geysers, earthquakes, glaciers, and groundwater work to modify the physical structure of Earth. Primarily designed as an information source, and intended to be a non-technical survey for those with little background in science, this book is presented in a reader-friendly style. Written in straightforward and accessible English, this book provides a broad look at a multidisciplinary field that incorporates aspects of biology, chemistry, physics, ecology, geography, meteorology, pedology, and many other areas of science. This book fills the gap between general introductory science texts and advanced environmental science books. Books on the subject are typically geared toward professionals in these fields. This makes undertaking a study of geology daunting to those without a specific background in science. However, this complexity also indicates geology's broad impact. Because geology so widely affects us, sometimes in profound ways, it is important to understand its basic concepts. This book presents information that everyone needs to know about geology and about how science and scientists work. The author uses illustrative problems in terms of commonly used geological parameters, and each chapter ends with a chapter review test. Readers discover a new appreciation for their surroundings and a broader outlook on their environment.