Earth: An Introduction to Physical Geology

by Tarbuck, Edward J.; Lutgens, Frederick K.; Tasa, Dennis

• ISBN13: 9780130282866
• ISBN10: 0130282863
• Edition: 6th
• Format: Paperback
• Copyright: 2000-05-01
• Publisher: Pearson College Div

Summary

To understand timely issues such as natural disasters and environmental challenges-and to evaluate solutions to related problems-the average citizen needs a basic awareness of the scientific principles that influence our planet. This trusted book makes an often-complex subject accessible to readers with a strong focus on readability and illustrations. Offers a meaningful, non-technical survey that is informative and up to date for learning basic principles and concepts. Includes a revised and expanded GEODe Earth CD-ROM. Updates and revises art and illustrations to include dozens of new high-quality, photographs carefully selected to aid understanding and add realism. Provides a wealth of new special-interest boxes, including "Earth as a System," "People and the Environment," and "Understanding Earth." A useful reference for anyone interested in learning more about Earth's geology.

Table of Contents

Preface	xv
An Introduction to Geology	1	(30)
Matter and Minerals	31	(28)
Igneous Rocks	59	(26)
Volcanic and Plutonic Activity	85	(34)
Weathering and Soil	119	(24)
Sedimentary Rocks	143	(26)
Metamorphic Rocks	169	(20)
Geologic Time	189	(24)
Mass Wasting	213	(18)
Running Water	231	(36)
Groundwater	267	(26)
Glaciers and Glaciation	293	(34)
Deserts and Winds	327	(22)
Shorelines	349	(26)
Crustal Deformation	375	(24)
Earthquakes	399	(30)
Earth's Interior	429	(18)
The Ocean Floor and Seafloor Spreading	447	(22)
Plate Tectonics	469	(42)
Mountain Building and the Evolution of Continents	511	(24)
Energy and Mineral Resources	535	(32)
Planetary Geology	567	(32)
Appendix A Metric and English Units Compared	599	(1)
Appendix B Common Minerals of Earth's Crust	600	(3)
Appendix C Topographic Maps	603	(4)
Appendix D Landforms of the Conterminous United States	607	(4)
Glossary	611	(18)
Index	629