Geology
The study of general geology helps us understand the Earth's past and present, and can provide insights into future changes in the planet's landscape and environment.
Mineralogical Diversity of Meteorites
Meteorites are fragments of extraterrestrial bodies that survive the journey through Earth's atmosphere and reach the surface. They provide valuable insight into the formation...
Rock Forming Minerals
Rock-forming minerals are minerals that are commonly found in the Earth's crust and are responsible for the formation of various types of rocks. These...
What is Pietra Dura? Properties, and Origins
Pietra Dura (also known as pietre dure or "hardstone mosaic") is a traditional Italian decorative art form that involves the inlaying of highly polished,...
Mass Extinctions in Earth’s History
A mass extinction is a widespread and rapid decrease in the biodiversity of life on Earth. They occur when a significant portion of the...
The Ring of Fire
The Ring of Fire is a geographical region in the Pacific Ocean known for its high level of volcanic and seismic activity. It is...
Unraveling the Mysteries of Pegmatite Veins
Pegmatite veins represent a fascinating geological phenomenon, often harboring an array of minerals with unique compositions and structures.
Pegmatite veins are igneous rock formations...
Can animals detect earthquakes?
Yes, some animals can detect earthquakes. There have been many reports of animals behaving strangely before earthquakes, such as dogs barking excessively or cats...
Types of Maps
Projections
Because the shape of the world is spherical, it is difficult to represent it on a plain paper. Cartographers use projections to make...
Rare Earth Elements: Minerals of the Future
Rare Earth Elements (REEs) have emerged as crucial components in modern technology, playing a pivotal role in various industries due to their unique properties....
Age of the Earth and Earth’s Oldest Rock
How old is the Earth?
Thanks to meteorites from space, rocks brought back by the Apollo astronauts from the Moon, and sundry other...
Optical Properties of Minerals
Study of how light passes through thin sections – rock cut and polished to about 0.3 mm thickness
Use properties of light absorption and propogation through a mineral à affected by atomic arrangement and composition
Learn the properties of light associated with techniques governing the use of a petrographic microscope
The Earth’s Layers
What are the major layers of the Earth?
The Earth is generally divided into four major layers: the crust, mantle, inner core,...