What is Geology?

The Earth (As A Whole)

The Earth is complex. Most people look at it

externally, but there’s a complex internal process.
 Geology, Defined

Geology - The study of the Earth, the materials it is

made of, the structure of materials on Earth, and the
processes which alter and create them.
Geology (Rocks!), I

Within geology, there are three types of rocks:

1. Sedimentary rocks
2. Metamorphic rocks
3. Igneous rocks
Geology (Rocks!), II
Types of Rocks
 Sedimentary Rocks

Sedimentary – Form at or near the Earth’s surface

through low temperatures and pressures.
Examples: sandstone, limestone, shale.
 Metamorphic Rocks

Metamorphic – Form when sedimentary or

igneous undergo intense heat/pressure in the Earth’s
crust. Example: marble, gneiss, schist.
 Igneous Rocks

Igneous – Form when magma cools and creates

crystals. Examples: granite, basalt, obsidian.
The Rock Cycle
 Forces of Change

Erosion (by water, wind, or ice) – the process that removes

soil, rock, or material from one spot and takes it to another.
Weathering (by water, wind, or ice) – the process that
removes soil, rock, or material from one spot but remains
where it is.
Deposition (by water, wind, or ice) – when soil, rock, or
material are added to a landmass.
Compaction (by rock, ice, or other sediment) – when
sediments are buried due to overlay pressure.
Cementation (when the sediment is “cemented” into the
rock) – the hardening of sediment together.
Forces of Change
 Questions

 What are the three types of rocks?

 What type of rock is made when it encounters magma?
 What’s the difference between erosion and weathering?