EARTH SCIENCE
Earth sciences are the fields of study concerned with the solid Earth, its waters, and the air
that envelops it. They include the geologic, hydrologic, and atmospheric sciences with the broad
aim of understanding Earth’s present features and past evolution and using this knowledge to
benefit humankind. Earth scientists observe, describe, and classify all features of Earth to
generate hypotheses with which to explain their presence and their development.
The Importance of Earth Science
Today we live in a time when the Earth and its inhabitants face many challenges. Our climate is
changing, and that change is being caused by human activity. Earth scientists recognized this
problem and will play a key role in efforts to resolve it. We are also challenged to: develop new
sources of energy that will have minimal impact on climate; locate new sources of metals and
other mineral resources as known sources are depleted; and, determine how Earth's increasing
population can live and avoid serious threats such as volcanic activity, earthquakes, landslides,
floods and more. These are just a few of the problems where solutions depend upon a deep
understanding of Earth science
Branches of Earth Science
Geology
Geology is the primary Earth science. The word
means "study of the Earth." Geology deals with
the composition of Earth materials, Earth
structures, and Earth processes. It is also
concerned with the organisms of the planet and
how the planet has changed over time.
Geologists search for fuels and minerals, study
natural hazards, and work to protect Earth's
environment.
