Geology

the outermost layer of the Earth, consisting of solid rock and divided into the continental crust and the oceanic crust

The study of the Earth's crust, known as geology, provides insights into the planet's history, evolution, and the processes shaping its surface.

particles of solid material that settle at the bottom of a liquid

After the river flooded, a layer of sediment covered the riverbed.

the process by which soil and rock are gradually destroyed and removed by natural forces such as wind, water, and ice

The Grand Canyon was formed over millions of years through the erosion of the Colorado River cutting through the rock layers.

(geology) a distinct layer of rock or sediment

the scientific study of minerals, their composition, properties, and classification, often involving the analysis of crystal structures and the identification of various mineral species

Mineralogy examines the unique properties of minerals, including their color, hardness, and crystal structure.

the branch of geology that focuses on the study of rocks, their classification, composition, origin, and the processes involved in their formation

Petrology investigates the diverse types of rocks found in the Earth's crust and their characteristics.

the scientific study of landforms, their origin, development, and classification, often examining the processes that shape the Earth's surface, such as erosion, deposition, and tectonic activity

Geomorphology investigates the creation and evolution of landforms, including mountains, valleys, and plains.

a tapering, icicle-like mineral formation hanging from the roof of a cave or underground structure, typically composed of calcium carbonate deposited by dripping water containing dissolved minerals

Caves often feature beautiful stalactites formed over time by mineral-rich water dripping from the ceiling.

a cone-shaped mineral formation rising from the floor of a cave or underground structure, formed by the deposition of minerals from dripping water containing dissolved substances

Caves exhibit stalagmites, which grow upward from the cave floor due to mineral-rich water dripping from above.

(Gnosticism) a divine power or nature emanating from the Supreme Being and playing various roles in the operation of the universe

a supercontinent that existed during the late Paleozoic and early Mesozoic eras, comprising most of Earth's landmasses fused together before breaking apart into the continents we recognize today

Pangaea was a vast supercontinent that formed about 335 million years ago.

an ancient supercontinent that included South America, Africa, Antarctica, Australia, the Indian subcontinent, and the Arabian Peninsula

Gondwanaland was a massive landmass that played a significant role in Earth's geological history.

a hypothetical ancient supercontinent that existed from the late Precambrian to the Jurassic period, comprising the landmasses of present-day North America, Europe, Asia, and parts of Antarctica, before it began to break apart

Laurasia was a significant landmass in Earth's geological past, encompassing parts of North America, Europe, and Asia.

the total amount of water on Earth, including oceans, seas, lakes, rivers, groundwater, and atmospheric water vapor

The hydrosphere covers about 71% of Earth's surface, primarily composed of oceans and seas.

the act or process of placing one object or entity directly above or on top of another

The artist created a striking image through the superposition of different colored layers of paint.

a visible exposure of rock or geological strata at the Earth's surface, often occurring on hillsides, cliffs, or other elevated areas, providing insight into the underlying geological structure

Hiking along the trail, we encountered an impressive outcrop of sedimentary rock, revealing layers formed over millions of years.

principles from which other truths can be derived

a loose sleeveless cloak worn as an outer garment, usually fastened at the neck and falling over the shoulders and back