Earth Science

The Earth Science Study Brief is intended as a quick reference of fundamental concepts and complex processes on how Earth works.  Ideal for students of earth science and lifelong learners interested in physical science topics. This Study Brief focuses on specific concepts related to the study of Geology, which is one of the four main branches within the study of earth science. It provides a short introduction to Earth, including useful reference information about its size, shape, motion, atmosphere and structure. Sections outline key concepts about geological time, relative and absolute dating and unconformity. Individual sections are included on plate tectonics, plate boundaries and driving forces of plate motion, with fundamental information on convergent movement, transforms, faults, earthquakes and volcanoes.  Types of rocks and minerals are highlighted along with their defining characteristics and properties. Other topics in this Study Brief include effects of weathering, erosion and mass wasting. A final section on maps lists types of maps, map features, and provides basic examples of what geological maps look like.