What is Geology?

Guide to Geology

What is Geology?

    Geo – Earth, logy – science, so geology can be simply defined as the science of Earth. From the center of the core to the exosphere (outermost layer of the atmosphere), anything and every that happens naturally can be studied under the subject called geology. It was also called Rock Science, as most of the data source for the subject is from rocks.

Subject covers (Branches)

1. Origin of Earth (Dynamic Geology), 
2. Process of formation and alteration of landforms (Geomorphology)
3. Evolution of life (Palaeontology)
4. Study of rocks (Petrology)
5. Civil engineering construction (Engineering geology)
6. Exploitation of minerals (Mining geology)
7. Oil & Gas (Petroleum geology)
8. Study of physical properties of earth (Geophysics)
9. Earths chemical properties study (Geochemistry)
   and the list goes on.,

Key Concepts of Geology

    We need to know about the types of rocks found in vast areas of the earth. With the help of the rock record, like rock type (Petrology) minerals present in the rock (Mineralogy) & orientation of the different minerals (Texture), their alignment (Structure), we can try to find the environmental condition of rock formation. we can also use the dating techniques like isotope dating methods to find the time of the particular rock formation, and that's why I mentioned it as a Rock science. with these studies we can try to deduce the history of the earth.

Methods of Geology

    Geologists use a variety of methods, starting from fieldwork across remote landscapes to study the rock by using the very specific basic tool the geological hammer 🔨 (a geologist use to say 'with mind and hammer'), lens, GPS and other geological field kit to work in the field. and write down all the filed data in the filed note.

    After collecting filed data and (if required rock samples), we have to prepare a Map, called 'geological map'. which is considered to be a universal language of a geologist. A map prepared by a field geologist in Karaikudi, India (my hometown) can be read by a geology student in Royal Holloway, University of London. After Get impressed by the work get my guidance to create a Map for her final exam Geological map of the Kerrera Island in Scotland. 

    Modern geologist also uses satellite images to creating geological maps, just like scientist in NASA, ISRO uses satellite image to find water and other minerals in extraterrestrial objects,  

    So, we can use field data and also space data for map preparation.

Challenges in Geology

    It is considered to be a most challenging subject, as it is also an evolving subject too. whatever we study now (earth revolve around sun) was considered to be total wrong a few decades ago (sun revolves around earth).

    Whatever we do on the earth surface a proper knowledge of Geology is required. Construction of a megastructure (like Palm Island, Three Gorges Dam) and exploiting of petroleum and natural resources need a detailed knowledge of the Earth, especially the structure in that region. misunderstanding of which can cause a very big loss of life and resources (Darvaza crater) so the subject of Geology is really a challenging one.

    And the role of the geologist changes according to the needed, following is a table of task of geologist just for a comparison.

Role of Geologist

In Engineering project	In Mining & Energy Resources project
Provide geological information and interpretations for engineering design.	Plan and conduct exploration and evaluation programs.
Identify, map, and evaluate potential seismic and other geologic-geomorphological conditions and/or hazards.	Implement geologic field investigations on prospects.
Evaluate materials resources.	Identify mineral deposits from surface and/or subsurface mapping or remote imagery.
Plan and evaluate remediation and restoration programs for hazard mitigation and land restoration.	Provide geologic interpretations for mine development and production activities.
Laboratory testing of earth and earth materials. Etc.,	Evaluate safety hazards associated with mineral, petroleum, and/or energy exploration and development.

Reference: The National Association of State Boards of Geology (ASBOG)

Education and Career Pathways in Geology:

    For those interested in the mysteries of the Earth, there are many opportunities through education and the profession of geology. It also has industries such as mining, environmental consulting, and research etc.,

Recent Advances in Geology

    The artificial intelligence & Machine learning open a new door for development of applications and work in remote sensing for mapping and mineral exploration. There is lot of scope in using advanced techniques in the field.

Have questions or want to share your thoughts? Leave a comment below!