Geology, geomorphology and the lithosphere Books

a huge range and FREE tracked UK delivery on ALL orders.

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe 21st century's bestselling popular science book has now been fully revised and updated in Bill Bryson's inimitable style to reflect the many advances in science since this book was first published in 2003. This journey through time and space will inform a new generation of readers as well as those who read this book on first publication with a new perspective based on what we know now. A Short History of Nearly Everything 2.0 is the result of Bill Bryson's quest to understand everything that has happened from the Big Bang to the rise of civilization how we got from being nothing at all to what we are today. Now fully updated to include all the latest advances in science, it is more ground-breaking than ever before. Bryson makes complex subjects fascinating and accessible to everyone with an interest in the world around them. A Short History of Nearly Everything 2.0 reveals the world in a whole new way. 'Possibly the best scientific primer ever published.' Economist'Truly impressive...It's hard to imagine a better rough guide to science.' Guardian'A travelogue of science, with a witty, engaging, and well-informed guide' The Times

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

a huge range and FREE tracked UK delivery on ALL orders.

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book Synopsis'A very British love-letter to the beauty of flint' Daily TelegraphFusing science, poetry, history and a profound love of landscape, this is her heartfelt, thoroughly persuasive tribute to the stone she calls 'an art project of the great divine'.

Read more less

Book SynopsisPlacing twenty first-century climate change in deep context, A Brief History of Earth is an indispensable look at where we’ve been and where we’re going.Features original illustrations depicting Earth history and nearly 50 figures (maps, tables, photographs, graphs).Trade Review“A fantastic distillation of Earth's history, from one of the world’s leading geologists: Andrew H. Knoll has written an engrossing, witty, and eminently readable romp through our home planet’s 4.5 billion years, from trilobites and dinosaurs to human origins and our rapidly changing modern times.” — Steve Brusatte, New York Times bestselling author of The Rise and Fall of the Dinosaurs "Having spent decades at the forefront of discovery and research, Andrew H. Knoll has been one of our planet's leading scientists. In A Brief History of Earth, Knoll treats us to a 4.6-billion-year detective story revealing the origins and inner workings of our home in the solar system. In these pages you'll discover something profound: how our past, present, and future are grounded in Planet Earth." — Neil Shubin, author of Your Inner Fish and Some Assembly Required "Covers the arc of our planet’s history from its earliest formation to the present day in a succinct and deftly-written way." — Forbes “Charts the planet’s history in accessible style, from its beginning as ‘a small planet accreted out of rocky debris circling a modest young star’ through the development of minerals, geographical formations, atmosphere, and life forms large and small.” — Associated Press "Skillfully condenses the history of the Earth. ... An expert primer on the history of everything." — Kirkus Reviews "A sublime chronicle of our planet’s formation and beginnings, the perhaps unlikely yet awe-inspiring interactions that created life, diverse and abundant, and mass extinctions and recoveries. Knoll skillfully presents the extreme conditions, violence, and delicate fragility that mark the cycles and evolution of our home." — Booklist (starred review) "The type of book that is sorely needed at this moment in history. ... Knoll assembles facts from a wide variety of fields to tell our planet’s story in a clear and accessible narrative." — Scientific Inquirer “An eloquent call to action.” — CNN.com "In spite of its sweeping scale, the Harvard geologist and natural history professor’s primer not only makes the titular four billion years understandable – his accessible expertise makes it interesting." — Globe and Mail (Toronto)

Read more less

Book SynopsisChris Pellant has been writing earth science books since the 1980s. These include The Complete Book of Rocks and Minerals, Fossils of the World, and Discover Science: Rocks and Fossils. In addition to his authorial work, he runs a photographic library with his wife Helen, and is a dedicated researcher and conservationist.

Read more less

Book SynopsisWhat will remain of our plastic, cans, and other junk long after humans have vanished?What kind of fossils will we leave, as relics into the far future? A blizzard of new objects has suddenly appeared on Earth: plastic bottles, ballpoint pens, concrete flyways, outsize chicken bones, aluminium cans, teabags, mobile phones, T-shirts. They''re produced for our comfort and pleasure ^—^ then quickly discarded. The number of our constructions has exploded, to outweigh the whole living world. This new-made treasure chest underpins our lives. But it is also giving a completely new style of fossilization to our planet, as hyper-diverse and hyper-rapidly-evolving technofossils spin out of our industrialized economy. Designed to resist sun, wind, rain, corrosion and decay, and buried in soils, seafloor muds and the gigantic middens of our landfill sites, many will remain, petrified, as future geology. What will these technofossils look like, in future rock? How long will they last and how will they change, as they lie underground for decades, then millennia, then millions of years? Discarded describes how they transform as they are attacked by bacteria, baked by the Earth''s inner heat, squashed by overlying rock, permeated by subterranean fluids, crumpled by mountain-building movements ^—^ and what will be left of them. These new fossils also have meaning for our lives today. For we live on a world increasingly buried under our growing waste. As our discarded artefacts begin to change into fossils, they may be swallowed by birds, entangle fish, alter microbial communities and release toxins. Even deeply buried in rock, technofossils may break down into new-formed oil and gas, change the composition of groundwater, and attract new mineral growths. They will have a lasting impact.It is a new planetary phenomenon, now unfolding around us. Scientists are only just beginning to grasp its scale, and get to grips with how it functions. This book describes, for the general reader, the kind of science that is emerging to show the far-future human footprint on Earth. It offers a different perspective upon fossils and fossilization, one that expands the idea of what people think of as fossils, and what they can tell us.

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisDid you know that there are more than 60 active volcanoes in Europe today? Or that the longest-existing lava lake is in Ethiopia? Or that Mount Stromboli off the coast of Italy has been in almost continuous eruption for the past 2000 years? Illustrated with 200 spectacular photographs, Volcano is a fascinating visual journey around the globe, selecting the most striking live and extinct volcanoes from Alaska to Antarctica, from Tanzania to Tasmania, from Kamchatka in Russia’s far east to Indonesia and the Philippines. Alongside famous volcanoes such as Mount Etna in Sicily, Mount Vesuvius on the Italian mainland and Mount St Helens in Washington State, the book features many lesser known but equally interesting volcanoes across all the continents. Each entry is accompanied with a fascinating caption explaining not only the geological forces at work, but also how the volcano has shaped the history of the surrounding areas across millennia. Presented in a landscape format and with more than 190 outstanding colour photographs of around 100 entries, Volcano is a stunning collection of images.Table of ContentsIntroduction EUROPE Kirkjufell, Iceland Holuhraun lava field, Iceland Bárðarbunga, Iceland Eldfell, Heimaey, Iceland Eyjafjallajokull, Iceland Puy de Dôme, France Puy de Pariou, France Piton de la Fournaise, Réunion Island, France Teide, Tenerife, Canary Islands, Spain Calderón Hondo, Fuerteventura, Canary Islands, Spain Tahiche, Lanzarote, Canary Islands, Spain Timanfaya, Lanzarote, Canary Islands, Spain Croscat, Spain Islet of Vila Franca do Campo, São Miguel Island,Azores, Portugal Mount Pico, Portugal Sete Citades, Azores, Portugal Stromboli, Aeolian Islands, Italy Vulcano and Lipari, Aeolian Islands, Italy Mount Etna, Sicily, Italy Mount Vesuvius, Campania, Italy Nisyros, Dodecanese, Greece Nea Kameni, Santorini, Greece Mount Ararat, Turkey AFRICA & THE MIDDLE EAST Pico do Fogo, Fogo, Cape Verde Mount Cameroon, Cameroon Mount Nyiragongo, Democratic Republic of the Congo Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania Ol Doinyo Lengai, Tanzania Muhavura, Uganda/Rwanda Dallol, Danakil Depression, Ethiopia Erta Ale, Ethiopia Nabro, Danakil Depression, Eritrea Zendan-e Soleyman, Iran Taftan, Iran Mount Damavand, Iran ASIA, THE PACIFIC & ANTARCTICA Mutnovsky, Kamchatka Peninsula, Russia Karymsky, Kamchatka Peninsula, Russia Kambalny, Kamchatka Peninsula, Russia Tolbachik, Kamchatka Peninsula, Russia Koryaksky, Kamchatka Peninsula, Russia Cherpuk, Kamchatka Peninsula, Russia Klyuchevskoy Sopka, Kamchatka Peninsula, Russia Avachinsky, Kamchatka Peninsula, Russia Gorely, Kamchatka Peninsula, Russia Kamen, Kamchatka Peninsula, Russia Paektu, China/North Korea Komezuka, Aso, Kyushu, Japan Sarychev Peak, Kuril Islands Mount Fuji, Honshu, Japan Mount Aso, Kyushu, Japan Mount Chokai, Honshu, Japan Mayon, Luzon, Philippines Mount Pinatubo, Philippines Chu Dang Ya, Gia Lai province, Vietnam Mount Rinjani, Lombok, Indonesia Kelimutu, Flores, Indonesia Anak Krakatoa, Indonesia Mount Sinabung, Sumatra, Indonesia Merapi, Java, Indonesia Mounts Bromo, Batok and Semeru, Java, Indonesia Manam, Manam Island, Papua New Guinea The Nut, Tasmania, Australia Mount Tongariro, New Zealand White Island/Whakaari, New Zealand Mount Ngauruhoe, New Zealand Mount Ruapehu, New Zealand Mawson Peak, Heard Island, Australia Mount Discovery, Antarctica Brown Bluff, Antarctica Mount Erebus, Ross Island, Antarctica NORTH AMERICA & CARIBBEAN Mount Shasta and Black Butte, California Augustine, Alaska Mount Shishaldin, Alaska Mount Si, Washington Mount St Helens, Washington Mount Adams, Washington Mount Rainier, Washington Mount Hood, Oregon Crater Lake, Oregon Devils Tower, Wyoming Lassen Peak, California Cinder Cone, California San Francisco Peaks, Arizona Haleakala, Maui, Hawaii Mount Kilauea, Hawaii Diamond Head, Oahu, Hawaii Hanauma Bay and Koko Crater, Oahu, Hawaii Anahim Peak, British Columbia, Canada Popocatépetl, Mexico Parícutin, Mexico Tacaná, Mexico Nevis Peak, St Kitts, Lesser Antilles Soufrière Hills, Montserrat, Lesser Antilles CENTRAL & SOUTH AMERICA Fuego, Guatemala San Pedro, Guatemala Izalco, El Salvador El Boqueron/San Salvador, El Salvador Tiger Island, Honduras Momotombo, Nicaragua Concepción, Nicaragua Irazu, Costa Rica Turrialba, Costa Rica Arenal, Costa Rica Galeras, Colombia Antisana, Ecuador Tungurahua, Ecuador Cotopaxi, Ecuador Misti, Peru Licancabur and Juriques, Chile Descabezado Grande, Chile Puyehue-Cordon Caulle, Chile Aracar, Argentina Tromen, Argentina

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe land that was to become Scotland has travelled across the globe over the last 3,000 million years - from close to the South Pole to its current position. During these travels, there were many continental collisions, creating mountain belts as high as the present-day Himalayas. The Highlands of Scotland were formed in this way. Our climate too has changed dramatically over the last 3 billion years from the deep freeze of the Ice Age to scorching heat of the desert. And within a relatively short time - geologically speaking, we will plunge back into another ice age. In Set in Stone, Alan McKirdy traces Scotland's amazing geological journey, explaining for the non - specialist reader why the landscape looks the way it does todays. He also explores Scots and those working in Scotland have played a seminal role in the development of the science of geology, understanding Earth processes at a local and global scale.

Read more less

Book SynopsisFrom Scafell's towering volcanic crags to the deep lake-filled glacial valleys of Wasdale and Buttermere, the Lake District possesses an extraordinary variety of scenery in a relatively small area. This dramatic landscape has inspired writers, climbers, painters, and all who seek the solitude and beauty of the high fells and wish to understand the forces that have shaped this unique place. With over 230 illustrations including maps and superb photographs with unique aerial views and panoramas, it includes: easy-to-understand explanations of how the rocks formed; how the geology affects the landscape and an exploration of the long human story of Lakeland landscapes. There are guided excursions to seven easily accessible geological locations and a dedicated website, with a Google Earth photographic guide to all the main localities mentioned in the book: lakedistrictgeology.co.uk This book will enable you to read' the landscape, understand how the region's rocks were formed, how glaTrade ReviewIf you are visiting the Lake District and are interested in its geology, this guide is a great place to start. -- Jon Trevelyan, reviewer Deposits * Deposits magazine *This is probably the best book I have read on the geology of the Lake District, so easy to understand, not full of jargon and explains in layman’s terms how the landscape of the Lakes was formed and shaped. -- Warren Allison reviewer * Newsletter of the Cumbria Amenity Trust Mining History Society *It's accessible style and lack of jargon provides a fascinating insight into how the Lake District was formed and shaped. For the novice or experienced fell walker, this edition will add depth to your adventure. -- Christopher James, Conserving Lakeland Magazine * Conserving Lakeland Magazine *The stated aim, one that is admirably fulfilled, is to provide an accessible text that can be understood and enjoyed by non-experts. This is a book that can be recommended wholeheartedly, for expert and non-expert alike. -- David Bridgland, Earth Heritage Magazine * Earth Heritage Magazine *A delight to read. The authors, by following Einstein’s razor, commonly stated as: Make things as simple as possible, but not simpler, keep their text tight and economical, and yet by no means superficial. With its straightforward descriptions of how Lakeland rocks formed and how they have affected the landscape, along with 230 illustrations including magnificent aerial photographs and well-chosen maps, the book will appeal to a wide audience. Additionally, a splendid companion website is made freely available. Its varied supplementary materials are well worth visiting. Clicking on the coloured placemarks reveals photographs and descriptions of key locations mentioned in the book. Very impressive! It is impossible to close this review without singling out the illustrations for special praise. All are closely allied to the text to make a telling point about the geology or landscape. Stuart Holmes’s aerial shots, many taken from his paraglider, have won numerous awards. It is easy to see how wild and mountainous landscapes are his passion. -- Roy Thompson, The Edinburgh Geologist * The Edinburgh Geologist *Combining erudite but accessible commentaries with stunning landscape photographs, informative maps and the occasional graph or chart, Ian and his fellow authors detail the processes that have contributed to, conditioned and, in some cases, threatened the Lake District's environment. This overview then gives way to a series of excursions that conduct the reader on a tour of seven of the region's characteristic localities, including the Seathwaite Valley and Coniston copper mines. The addition of these excursions adds to the value of this attractive and well-produced study, which will be especially interesting for readers wishing to venue outdoors. -- Christopher Donaldson, Cumberland & westmorland Antiquarian & Arch Society newsletter * Cumberland & westmorland Antiquarian & Arch Society newsletter *

Read more less

Book SynopsisGet a rock-solid grasp on geology Geology For Dummies is ideal reading for anyonewith an interest in the fundamental concepts of geology, whether they''re lifelong learners with a fascination for the subject or college students interested in pursuing geology or earth sciences. Presented in a straightforward, trusted formatand tracking to a typical introductory geology course at the college levelthis book features a thorough introduction to the study of earth, its materials, and its processes. Rock records and geologic time Large-scale motion of tectonic plates Matter, minerals, and rocks The geological processes on earth''s surface Rock that geology class with Geology For Dummies!Table of ContentsIntroduction 1 About This Book 1 Foolish Assumptions 2 Icons Used in This Book 2 Beyond the Book 3 Where to Go from Here 3 Part 1: Studying The Earth 5 Chapter 1: Rocks for Jocks (and Everybody Else) 7 Finding Your Inner Scientist 8 Making observations every day 8 Jumping to conclusions 8 Focusing on Rock Formation and Transformation 8 Understanding how rocks form 9 Tumbling through the rock cycle 9 Mapping Continental Movements 10 Unifying geology with plate tectonics theory 10 Debating a mechanism for plate movements 11 Moving Rocks around on Earth’s Surface 11 Interpreting a Long History of Life on Earth 12 Using relative versus absolute dating 12 Witnessing evolution in the fossil record 13 Chapter 2: Observing Earth through a Scientific Lens 15 Realizing That Science Is Not Just for Scientists 15 Using a Methodical Approach: The Scientific Method 16 Sensing something new 17 I have a hypothesis! 18 Testing your hypothesis: Experiments 18 Crunching the numbers 19 Interpreting results 21 Sharing the findings 21 Building New Knowledge: A Scientific Theory 21 It’s never “just a theory” 22 Scientific theory versus scientific law 22 The road to paradigms 23 Speaking in Tongues: Why Geologists Seem to Speak a Separate Language 23 Lamination vs foliation: Similar outcomes from different processes 24 Gabbro vs basalt: Different outcomes from similar processes 24 Chapter 3: From Here to Eternity: The Past, Present, and Future of Geologic Thought 27 Catastrophe Strikes Again and Again 28 Early Thoughts on the Origin of Rocks 28 Developing Modern Geologic Understanding 29 Reading the rock layers: Steno’s stratigraphy 29 These things take time! Hutton’s hypothesis 30 What has been will be: Lyell’s principles 31 Uniformi-what? Understanding the Earth through Uniformitarianism 32 Pulling It All Together: The Theory of Plate Tectonics 32 Forging Ahead into New Frontiers 33 Asking how, where, and why: Mountain building and plate boundaries 33 Mysteries of the past: Snowball earth, first life, and mass extinctions 34 Predicting the future: Earthquakes and climate change 35 Out of this world: Planetary geology and the search for life 37 Chapter 4: Home Sweet Home: Planet Earth 39 Earth’s Spheres 39 Examining Earth’s Geosphere 41 Defining Earth’s layers 41 Examining each layer 43 Part 2: Elements, Minerals, And Rocks 49 Chapter 5: It’s Elemental, My Dear: A Very Basic Chemistry of Elements and Compounds 51 The Smallest Matter: Atoms and Atomic Structure 52 Getting to know the periodic table 53 Interpreting isotopes 56 Charging particles: Ions 56 Chemically Bonding 57 Donating electrons (ionic bonds) 57 Sharing electrons (covalent bonds) 57 Migrating electrons (metallic bonds) 58 Formulating Compounds 60 Chapter 6: Minerals: The Building Blocks of Rocks 61 Meeting Mineral Requirements 62 Making Crystals 62 Identifying Minerals Using Physical Characteristics 63 Observing transparency, color, luster, and streak 63 Measuring mineral strength 64 If it tastes like salt, it must be halite: Noting unique mineral properties 68 Measuring properties in the lab 69 Realizing Most Rocks Are Built from Silicate Minerals 70 Finding silicates in many shapes 71 Grouping silicate minerals 74 Remembering the Nonsilicate Minerals 74 Carbonates 74 Sulfides and sulfates 75 Oxides 75 Native elements 76 Evaporites 76 Gemstones 77 Chapter 7: Recognizing Rocks: Igneous, Sedimentary, and Metamorphic Types 79 Mama Magma: Birthing Igneous Rocks 80 Remembering how magma is made 80 Classifying melt composition 81 Reacting in sequence: Bowen’s reaction series 81 Evolving magmas 83 Crystallizing one way or another: Igneous rocks 84 Classifying igneous rocks 85 Studying volcanic structures 89 Looking below the surface 92 Merging Many Single Grains of Sand: Sedimentary Rocks 94 Weathering rocks into sediments 95 Changing from sediment into rock 98 Sizing up the grains: Classifying sedimentary rocks 99 Searching for sedimentary basins 102 Telling stories of the past: Sedimentary structures 103 Stuck between a Rock and a Hard Place: Metamorphic Rocks 106 Turning up the heat and pressure: Metamorphism 106 Grading metamorphism with index minerals 107 Between the mineral sheets: Foliation, or maybe not 108 Categorizing metamorphic rocks 110 Tumbling through the Rock Cycle: How Rocks Change from One Type to Another 112 Part 3: One Theory To Explain It All: Plate Tectonics 115 Chapter 8: Adding Up the Evidence for Plate Tectonics 117 Drifting Apart: Wegener’s Idea of Continental Drift 118 Continental puzzle solving 118 Fossil matching 119 Stratigraphic stories 120 Icy cold climates of long ago 122 Meeting at the equator 123 Searching for a mechanism 123 Coming Together: How Technology Sheds Light on Plate Tectonics 124 Mapping the seafloor 124 Flip-flopping magnetic poles: Paleomagnetism and seafloor spreading 125 Measuring plate movements 127 Unifying the theory 127 Chapter 9: When Crustal Plates Meet, It’s All Relative 129 Density Is Key 130 Two of a Kind: Continental and Oceanic Crust 131 Dark and dense: Oceanic crust 131 Thick and fluffy: Continental crust 131 Understanding Why Density Matters: Isostasy 132 Defining Plate Boundaries by Their Relative Motion 133 Driving apart: Divergent plate boundaries 134 Crashing together: Convergent plate boundaries 136 Slip-sliding along: Transform plate boundaries 139 Shaping Topography with Plate Movements 141 Deforming the crust at plate boundaries 141 Compressing rocks into folds 142 Faulting in response to stress 144 Building mountains 146 Chapter 10: Who’s Driving This Thing? Mantle Convection and Plate Movement 149 Running in Circles: Models of Mantle Convection 150 Mantle plumes: Just like the lava in your lamp 152 The slab-pull and ridge-push models 152 Using Convection to Explain Magma, Volcanoes, and Underwater Mountains 153 Plate friction: Melting rock beneath the earth’s crust 154 Creating volcanic arcs and hotspots 154 Birthing new seafloor at mid-ocean ridges 158 Shake, Rattle, and Roll: How Plate Movements Cause Earthquakes 158 Responding elastically 159 Sending waves through the earth 160 Measuring magnitude 160 Part 4: Superficially Speaking: About Surface Processes 163 Chapter 11: Gravity Takes Its Toll: Mass Wasting 165 Holding Steady or Falling Down: Friction versus Gravity 166 Focusing on the Materials Involved 167 Loose materials: Resting at the angle of repose 167 Bedrock: Losing its stability 168 Triggering Mass Movements 168 Adding water to the mix 168 Changing the slope angle 169 Shaking things up: Earthquakes 170 Removing vegetation 170 Moving Massive Amounts of Earth, Quickly 171 Falls 171 Slides and slumps 171 Flows 172 A More Subtle Approach: Creep and Soil Flow (Solifluction) 173 Chapter 12: Water: Above and Below Ground 175 Hydrologic Cycling 176 Driving the cycle with evaporation 176 Traveling across a continent 177 Streams: Moving Sediments toward the Ocean 178 Draining the basin 178 Two types of flow 179 Measuring stream characteristics 180 Carrying a heavy load 180 Measuring what is transported 181 Eroding a Stream Channel to Base Level 182 Seeking Equilibrium after Changes in Base Level 183 Leaving Their Mark: How Streams Create Landforms 184 Draining the basin 184 Meandering along 185 Depositing sediments along the way 187 Reaching the sea 187 Flowing beneath Your Feet: Groundwater 188 Infiltrating tiny spaces underground 188 Measuring porosity and permeability 189 Setting the water table 189 Springing from rocks 190 That sinking feeling: Karst, caves, and sinkholes 192 Chapter 13: Flowing Slowly toward the Sea: Glaciers 195 Identifying Three Types of Glaciers 196 Understanding Ice as a Geologic Force 196 Transforming snow into ice 197 Balancing the glacial budget 197 Flowing solidly down the mountain 198 Eroding at a Snail’s Pace: Landforms Created by Glacial Erosion 199 Plucking and abrading along the way 200 Creating their own valleys 200 Speaking French: Cirques, arêtes, et roche moutonnées 201 Leaving It All Behind: Glacial Deposits 203 Depositing the till 203 Plains, trains, eskers, and kames 204 Behaving erratically: Large boulders in odd places 206 Where Have All the Glaciers Gone? 206 Filling the erosional gaps 206 Cycling through ice ages 207 Rebounding isostatically 209 Chapter 14: Blowing in the Wind: Moving Sediments without Water 211 Lacking Water: Arid Regions of the Earth 212 Transporting Particles by Air 212 Skipping right along: Bed load and saltation 213 Suspending particles in air 214 Deflating and Abrading: Features of Wind Erosion 214 Removing sediments 215 Scratching the surface 215 Just Add Wind: Dunes and Other Depositional Wind Features 216 Migrating piles of sand: Dunes 217 Shaping sand 218 Laying down layers of loess 219 Paving the Desert: Deposition or Erosion? 221 Chapter 15: Catch a Wave: The Evolution of Shorelines 223 Breaking Free: Waves and Wave Motion 223 Dissecting wave anatomy 223 Starting to roll 224 Going with the flow: Currents and tides 226 Shaping Shorelines 228 Carving cliffs and other features 228 Budgeting to build sandbars 228 Categorizing Coastlines 230 Part 5: Long, Long Ago In This Galaxy Right Here 233 Chapter 16: Getting a Grip on Geologic Time 235 The Layer Cake of Time: Stratigraphy and Relative Dating 236 Speaking relatively 236 Sorting out the strata 236 Putting rock layers in the right order 237 Losing time in the layers 238 Show Me the Numbers: Methods of Absolute Dating 240 Measuring radioactive decay 241 Common radioactive isotopes for geological dating 244 Other exacting methods of geological dating 245 Relatively Absolute: Combining Methods for the Best Results 248 Eons, Eras, and Epochs (Oh My!): Structuring the Geologic Timescale 249 Chapter 17: A Record of Life in the Rocks 253 Explaining Change, Not Origins: The Theory of Evolution 254 The Evolution of a Theory 254 Acquiring traits doesn’t do it 254 Naturally, selecting for survival 255 Mendel’s peas please 255 Genetic nuts and bolts 256 Spontaneously mutating genes 256 Speciating right and left 257 Putting Evolution to the Test 258 Against All Odds: The Fossilization of Lifeforms 259 Bones, teeth, and shell: Body fossils 259 Just passing through: Trace fossils 260 Correcting for Bias in the Fossil Record 261 Hypothesizing Relationships: Cladistics 262 Chapter 18: Time before Time Began: The Precambrian 265 In the Beginning Earth’s Creation from a Nebulous Cloud 266 Addressing Archean Rocks 267 Creating continents 267 Revving up the rock cycle 267 Feeling hot, hot, hot: Evidence for extreme temperatures 269 Originating with Orogens: Supercontinents of the Proterozoic Eon 270 Single Cells, Algal Mats, and the Early Atmosphere 271 Hunting early prokaryotes and eukaryotes 271 You know it as pond scum: Cyanobacteria 272 Waiting to inhale: The formation of Earth’s atmosphere 275 Questioning the Earliest Complex Life: The Ediacaran Fauna 278 Chapter 19: Teeming with Life: The Paleozoic Era 281 Exploding with Life: The Cambrian Period 282 Toughen up! Developing shells 282 Ruling arthropods of the seafloor: Trilobites 283 Building Reefs All Over the Place 284 Swimming freely: Ammonoids and nautiloids 285 Exploring freshwater: Eurypterids 287 Spinal Tapping: Animals with Backbones 287 Fish evolve body armor, teeth, and legs? 287 Venturing onto land: Early amphibians 290 Adapting to life on land: The reptiles 290 Planting Roots: Early Plant Evolution 291 Tracking the Geologic Events of the Paleozoic 293 Constructing continents 293 Reading the rocks: Transgressions and regressions 294 Fossilizing carbon fuels 297 Pangaea, the most super of supercontinents 297 Chapter 20: Mesozoic World: When Dinosaurs Dominated 299 Driving Pangaea Apart at the Seams 300 One continent becomes many 300 Influencing global climate 301 Creating the mountains of North America 302 Repopulating the Seas after Extinction 303 The Symbiosis of Flowers 304 Recognizing All the Mesozoic Reptiles 306 Flocking together 308 Climbing the Dinosaur Family Tree 308 Branching out: Ornithischia and Saurischia 308 Horned faces and armor: Ornithischian dinosaurs 309 Long necks and meat eaters: Saurischian dinosaurs 312 Flocking Together: The Evolutionary Road to Birds 313 Laying the Groundwork for Later Dominance: Early Mammal Evolution 314 Chapter 21: The Cenozoic Era: Mammals Take Over 315 Putting Continents in Their Proper (Okay, Current) Places 316 Creating modern geography 316 Consuming the Farallon Plate 317 Carving the Grand Canyon with uplift 319 Icing over northern continents 320 Entering the Age of Mammals 320 Regulating body temperature 322 Filling every niche 323 Living Large: Massive Mammals Then and Now 323 Nosing around elephant evolution 324 Returning to the sea: Whales 325 Larger than life: Giant mammals of the ice ages 326 Right Here, Right Now: The Reign of Homo Sapiens 327 Arguing for the Anthropocene 329 Altering the climate 329 Shaping the landscape 330 Leaving evidence in the rock record 332 Chapter 22: And Then There Were None: Major Extinction Events in Earth’s History 333 Explaining Extinctions 334 Heads up! Astronomical impacts 334 Lava, lava everywhere: Volcanic eruptions and flood basalts 335 Shifting sea levels 337 Changing climate 337 End Times, at Least Five Times 337 Cooling tropical waters 338 Reducing carbon dioxide levels 338 The Great Dying 339 Paving the way for dinosaurs 340 Demolishing dinosaurs: The K/T boundary 340 Modern Extinctions and Biodiversity 342 Hunting the megafauna 342 Reducing biodiversity 343 Part 6: The Part of Tens 345 Chapter 23: Ten Ways You Use Geologic Resources Every Day 347 Burning Fossil Fuels 347 Playing with Plastics 348 Gathering Gemstones 348 Drinking Water 349 Creating Concrete 349 Paving Roads 350 Accessing Geothermal Heat 350 Fertilizing with Phosphate 350 Constructing Computers 351 Building with Beautiful Stone 351 Chapter 24: Ten Geologic Hazards 353 Changing Course: River Flooding 353 Caving In: Sinkholes 354 Sliding Down: Landslides 354 Shaking Things Up: Earthquakes 355 Washing Away Coastal Towns: Tsunamis 355 Destroying Farmland and Coastal Bluffs: Erosion 356 Fiery Explosions of Molten Rock: Volcanic Eruptions 356 Melting Ice with Fire: Jokulhlaups 357 Flowing Rivers of Mud: Lahars 357 Watching the Poles: Geomagnetism 358 Index 359

Read more less

Book SynopsisCally Hall is a geology expert and an author of educational guidebooks that make the subject accessible to a variety of readers. In addition to DK Handbook: Gemstones, she has also written science-themed books aimed at younger audiences.

Read more less

Book Synopsis'Astounding ... To call this a "history" does not do justice to Helen Gordon's ambition' Simon Ings, Daily Telegraph 'Awe-inspiring ... She has imbued geological tales with a beauty and humanity' Shaoni Bhattacharya-Woodward, Mail on Sunday The story of the Earth is written into our landscape: it's there in the curves of hills, the colours of stone, surprising eruptions of vegetation. Wanting a fresh perspective on her own life, the writer Helen Gordon set out to read that epic narrative. Her odyssey takes her from the secret fossils of London to the 3-billion-year-old rocks of the Scottish Highlands, and from a state-of-the-art earthquake monitoring system in California to one of the world's most dangerous volcanic complexes in Naples. At every step, she finds that the apparently solid ground beneath our feet isn't quite as it seems.Trade ReviewThe reward of Helen Gordon's profoundly considered and far-reaching book is that it opens up the dizzying view of geological time ... Notes from Deep Time reaches into a place that, in a post-religious era, offers a glimpse of something close to eternity -- Philip Marsden * FT *Astounding ... To call this a "history" does not do justice to Helen Gordon's ambition. Her adventures in the deep time of Earth hark all the way back to its beginnings as a barren ocean planet, 4.4 billion years ago, while keeping one foot firmly planted in the depleted and desertified plaything we're left with today ... Notes From Deep Time sidesteps the maundering and finger-wagging that comes with much Anthropocene thinking, and shows us how much sheer intellectual and poetical entertainment there is to be had in the idea -- Simon Ings * Daily Telegraph *Awe-inspiring ... It's Gordon's background as a literary writer that takes Notes From Deep Time to the next level. She has imbued geological tales with a beauty and humanity -- Shaoni Bhattacharya-Woodward * Mail on Sunday *Notes From Deep Time is a marvel-rich masterclass of narrative non-fiction, one of those books that teaches its reader to see the world completely differently. That it does so with wit, wisdom and crystal-perfect prose only adds to the pleasure. To escape from the present into deep time with such a companionable guide is clarifying, almost therapeutic, and at times gratifyingly dizzying -- Max Porter, author * Lanny *If there were ever a good time to think about deep time, it's now ... A whirlwind tour of our planet's deep past and far future ... succeeds in grounding our existence firmly in the context of geological time -- Alexandra Witze * Nature *Helen Gordon's wonderfully expansive book encompasses a paradoxical fluidity, both tangible and immense, where human witnesses measure out deep time in golden spikes and ammonites, excavating lost seas and saurians for clues as to what we were and who we will be -- Philip Hoare, author * Leviathan *A book as multi-layered as the deep-time planet itself -- Sara Wheeler, author * Terra Incognita *Sublime ... a fascinating and thrilling descent into time, human in scale but full of moments of vertiginous wonder -- Jon Day, author * Homing *Helen Gordon's terrifically readable book juxtaposes scenes from deep Earth time with telling accounts of how geologists forensically analyse the evidence for this enormous narrative - and looks to the future, too, as humans make their own additions to the planet's strata. Highly recommended -- Jan Zalasiewicz, author * The World in a Pebble *Questing, thoughtful and profoundly moving, Notes From Deep Time is a remarkable TARDIS of a book -- Dan Richards, author * Outpost *A sparkling book that humanises the pre-human era. In her journey from the Earth's molten Hadean beginnings to our Holocene age, Gordon delivers stratigraphic revelations through the stories of the intriguing individuals who have brought their mysteries to light -- India Bourke * New Statesman *

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisThis new edition includes 10,000 entries which cover all areas of geoscience, including planetary science, oceanography, palaeontology, mineralogy and volcanology. In this edition, 675 new entries have been added, and include expanded coverage of planetary geology and earth-observing-satellites. Other new entries terms such as Ianammox, Boomerangian, earth rheological layering, and metamorphic rock classification. The entries are also complemented by more than 130 diagrams and numerous web links that are listed on a regularly updated dedicated companion website. Appendices supplement the A-Z and have been extended to include three new tables on the Torino Impact Hazard Scale, Avalanche Classes, and the Volcanic Explosivity Index. The list of satellite missions has also been revised and updated to include recent developments. A Dictionary of Geology and Earth Sciences is an authoritative, and jargon-free resource for students of geology, geography, geosciences, physical science, and thoTrade ReviewI marvel at how the editors have compressed so much so clearly ... a feat which occurs only once in a blue moon -- and even that is defined * Nature *can really claim to offer comprehensive coverage of the earth sciences * TES *Table of ContentsPreface A-Z entries Stratigraphic Units As Defined In The North American Stratigraphic Code, 1983 Time-Scales Wind Strength Si Units, Conversions, And Multiples Volcanic Explosivity Index (VEI) Torino Impact Hazard Scale Avalanche Classes Satellite Missions

Read more less

Book SynopsisExplore the beauty and history of turquoise, one of the most celebrated and treasured gemstones of ancient and modern times. Revered around the world, turquoise is a mineral with two histories: that of its formation and that of the people who have mined, traded, and treasured it. Turquoise is an icon of ancient civilizations and especially of the desert regions where it most famously appears. Uncover the history and the secrets of this coveted gemstone in Turquoise. Written by Dan R. Lynch with Bob Lynch, the authors of several books about rocks and minerals, this is the definitive guide to the sky-blue stone. Begin by learning the natural history of turquoise, from how it forms to where it’s found. Dan and Bob present tips for finding and identifying turquoise, and they introduce naturally occurring and human-made turquoise look-alikes. Next, go in-depth on the human history of turquoise. You’ll learn all about buying and caring for turquoise, and you can glimpse our future with this gemstone of the American Southwest. Whether you’re a rockhound or someone who simply appreciates nature’s wonders, grab this book and get to know the storied mineral whose very name is a symbol of color. Book Features Summary of the fascinating natural history Expert advice on how to find and identify turquoise Full-color photographs and illustrations Suggestions on what to do with turquoise and how much it’s worth

Read more less

Book SynopsisPhysical Geology is a classic introductory text that has helped countless students learn basic physical geology concepts for over 25 years. Students taking introductory physical geology to fulfill a science elective, as well as those contemplating a career in geology, will appreciate the accessible writing style and depth of coverage in Physical Geology. Table of ContentsChapter 1: Introducing Geology, the Essentials of Plate Tectonics, and Other Important ConceptsChapter 2: Atoms, Elements and MineralsChapter 3: Igneous Rocks, the Origin and Evolution of Magma, and Intrusive ActivityChapter 4: Volcanism and Extrusive RocksChapter 5: Weathering and SoilChapter 6: Sediment and Sedimentary RocksChapter 7: Metamorphism and Metamorphic RocksChapter 8: Time and GeologyChapter 9: Mass WastingChapter 10: Streams and FloodsChapter 11: GroundwaterChapter 12: Glaciers and GlaciationChapter 13: Deserts and Wind ActionChapter 14: Waves, Beaches, and CoastsChapter 15: Geologic StructuresChapter 16: EarthquakesChapter 17: Earth’s Interior and Geophysical PropertiesChapter 18: The Sea FloorChapter 19: Plate Tectonics—The Unifying TheoryChapter 20: Mountain Belts and the Continental CrustChapter 21: Global Climate ChangeChapter 22: ResourcesChapter 23: The Earth’s Companions

Read more less

Book SynopsisTrade Review"[Japan] explores not just the animals of the country’s islands, but also the regions and the best seasons to see them – perfect for armchair travelling."---Penny Sarchet, New Scientist Wild Wild Life"Gloriously illustrated, deeply informed introduction by naturalist Mark Brazil."---Andrew Robinson, Nature"No matter what experience on Japan you have there is much to be learnt from this book. It is a wonderful compendium of Japan’s natural history that neatly complements the author’s other writings, and is an essential and enjoyable addition to the documentation of Japan’s wildlife."---Dave Brassington, Birdwatch"This book is excellent, deeply interesting and a real achievement to condense such a large and complex topic into something so accessible. If, like me you have ever dreamt of going to Japan this book is a great place to start planning an adventure of your own, even if you never get any further than your armchair."---David Swales, British Naturalists Association"For anyone even marginally interested in the wildlife of Japan this work will fill in the gaps in your knowledge, and expand on what you already know - all brought to you by one of Asia's foremost wildlife authorities."---David Gascoigne, Travels with Birds"Beautifully illustrated . . . a rich introduction to the diverse habitats contained within Japan, and the animals which live there."---Ian Rapley, Asian Review of Books"Nobody has done more in recent years than Mark Brazil to raise the profile of Japan’s wildlife and this latest book packs in a lot of information . . . . [This book] adds information about the ecology of the country that helps the visitor to make sense of how everything fits together."---Keith Betton, IBIS Book Reviews.

Read more less

Book SynopsisRanging across the 4.6 billion year history of the planet, geology is the subject that encompasses almost all that we see around us, in one way or another, and also much that we cannot see, beneath our feet, and on other planets. The fruits of geology provide most of the materials that give us shelter, and most of the energy that drives our modern lives. Within the study of geology lie some of the clues to the extraordinary impact our species is going to play out on the planet, in centuries and millennia to come.In this Very Short Introduction Jan Zalasiewicz gives a brief introduction to the fascinating field of geology. Describing how the science developed from its early beginnings, he looks at some of the key discoveries that have transformed it, before delving into its various subfields, such as sedimentology, tectonics, and stratigraphy. Analysing the geological foundations of the Earth, Zalasiewicz explains the interlocking studies of tectonics, geophysics, and igneous and metamorphic petrology and geochemistry; and describes how rocks are dated by radiometric dating. Considering the role and importance of geology in the finding and exploitation of resources (including fracking), he also discusses its place in environmental issues, such as foundations for urban structures and sites for landfill, and in tackling issues associated with climate change. Zalasiewicz concludes by discussing the exciting future and frontiers of the field, such as the exploration of the geology of Mars.ABOUT THE SERIES: The Very Short Introductions series from Oxford University Press contains hundreds of titles in almost every subject area. These pocket-sized books are the perfect way to get ahead in a new subject quickly. Our expert authors combine facts, analysis, perspective, new ideas, and enthusiasm to make interesting and challenging topics highly readable.Trade ReviewIf you do not want to have to wade through heavy tomes and are equipped with only school-level knowledge of science, to gain a basic appreciation of this subject, then this 150 page short book could well be just what you need. * Jonathan Cowie, Science Fact & Science Fiction Concatenation *I have never read a better introduction to this vast, fascinating, and vital subject. It really is like seeing the world in a grain of sand. * Dr Ted Nield, Editor, Geoscientist magazine *How much do we know about our home? Jan Zalasiewicz's brief history of Earth is fun to read, yet strong on science too. It's a clear and accurate guide to our planet, and also addresses the challenge of caring for the environment. Just right for that flight or a long train trip! * Euan Nisbet, Foundation Prof. of Earth Science, Royal Holloway, Univ. of London *Table of Contents1: What is geology? 2: Geology: the early days 3: Modern breakthroughs and revolutions 4: Deep Earth geology 5: Earth surface geology 6: Geological fieldwork 7: Geology for resources 8: Geology for society and the environment 9: A very brief history of the Earth

Read more less

Book SynopsisA beautiful memoir, travelogue, and meditation on stone by artist and stone mason Beatrice Searle.'What are you doing? If you don't mind me asking?'I say that we are taking this stone to Trondheim. I continue to tell her the story of Magnus and ancient Kings.'Would you like to stand in it?' I ask. 'That is what it is for.'At the age of twenty-six, Beatrice Searle crossed the North sea and walked 500 miles through Southern Norway on a medieval pilgrim path to Nidaros Cathedral, taking with her a 40-kilo stone from the West coast of Orkney.She had recently completed her masonry training at Lincoln Cathedral and become fascinated with the mysterious footprint stones of Scandinavia, Northern Europe and the ancient Greco-Roman world; stones closely associated with travellers, saints and the inauguration of Kings. Following in their footsteps, her stone becomes a talisman of sorts, a bedrock on the move, and an offering to those she meets along the way.Stone Will Answer is an unusual adventure story of resilience and homecoming, of weight and motion, of rediscovering love and faith, and of journeys practical, spiritual and geological. A captivating blend of exploration, memoir and myth, and an insight into a beguiling craft, it asks what lessons might be learned from stone, what we choose to carry with us and what we return to put down or pick up again.Trade ReviewExtraordinary... Confessional, elemental and at times moving, this is a memorable and unique celebration of the power and beauty of stone. * Guardian *Searle is an excellent storyteller... [and Stone Will Answer] make[s] for gripping reading... it's the human spirit that emerges triumphant in this sparky blend of memoir and travelogue... Above all, this is the story of a young woman's astonishing feat of endurance * Herald *A gifted writer, capable of luminous description * Spectator *Subtle and thought-provoking * TLS *Illuminating... I was quickly taken in by Beatrice Searle's distinctive voice, and by the end I couldn't help but feel very differently about stones, rootedness, belonging, and indeed what walking might mean. Beatrice's story is exceptional, and she is an exceptional story teller. -- Kerri Andrews, author of Wandering: A History of Women Walking

Read more less

Book SynopsisMinerals existed long before any forms of life, playing a key role in the origin and evolution of life; an interaction with biological systems that we are only now beginning to understand. Exploring the traditional strand of mineralogy, which emphasises the important mineral families, the well-established analytical methods (optical microscopy and X-ray diffraction) and the dramatic developments made in techniques over recent decades, David Vaughan also introduces the modern strand of mineralogy, which explores the role minerals play in the plate tectonic cycle and how they interact with the living world. Demonstrating how minerals can be critical for human health and illness by providing essential nutrients and releasing poisons, Vaughan explores the multitude of ways in which minerals have aided our understanding of the world.ABOUT THE SERIES: The Very Short Introductions series from Oxford University Press contains hundreds of titles in almost every subject area. These pocket-sized books are the perfect way to get ahead in a new subject quickly. Our expert authors combine facts, analysis, perspective, new ideas, and enthusiasm to make interesting and challenging topics highly readable.Trade Reviewan excellent choice for those curious to dig deeper into the mineral world. * Geoscientist *Table of Contents1. The mineral world ; 2. Studying minerals ; 3. Minerals and the interior of the Earth ; 4. Earth's surface and the cycling of minerals ; 5. Minerals and the living world ; 6. Minerals as resources ; 7. Minerals past, present, and future ; Further reading ; Index

Read more less

Book SynopsisAstonishing, studio-quality photographs of beautiful objects and specimens bring every corner of the planet, from core to atmosphere, to the printed pageElegant design combined with beautiful images to explore and explain Earth's natural riches. This is an informative, visually arresting introduction to planet Earth. The core of the book features large, detailed photographs of single objects, many of them small enough to be held in the hand, that each speak volumes about an aspect of Earth's environments and how they work. For example, bubbles of ancient air trapped inside an Antarctic ice core reveal how Earth's climate has changed over time. A piece of pumice thrown several miles into the air by a volcano helps to explain what happens when tectonic plates collide. The book is structured around an imaginary journey that takes the reader from the inner core to Earth's surface (including both land and oceans) and up to the top of the atmosphere. Taking in environments such as grassl

Read more less

Book SynopsisMeteorite tells the fascinating story of the stones from outer space scattered across our planet. From the impact that finished off the dinosaurs to the dagger made of extraterrestrial iron found in Tutankhamun's tomb, this book is packed full of surprising information, unlikely pioneers and eye-opening science. Dr Tim Gregory explains how these rocky fragments offer clues not just to the earliest origins of everything, but also to humanity's survival into the future.'A passionate communicator, Tim Gregory conjures colourful environments and events far outside the human' NATURE 'Meticulous and eminently readable, served with clarity, erudition and humour' WALL STREET JOURNAL 'Tim Gregory gets it. He has an uncanny ability to swiftly understand, to clearly explain, and to be joyful' CHRIS HADFIELD Trade ReviewDrawing on his deep technical education and boundless curiosity, Tim Gregory brings a childlike wonder of discovery to everything he sees. He shows an uncanny ability to swiftly understand, to clearly explain, and to be joyful in the process. His scientific delight is contagious * Chris Hadfield *Meticulously researched and eminently readable . . . [Gregory] writes with aplomb, his sentences backed by hard evidence and served with clarity, erudition and occasionally humour . .. . Meteorite is a treasure for those who enjoy the stepwise narrative of scientific discovery . . . magnificent * Wall Street Journal *A captivating blend of painstaking detective work and dramatic cosmic events. The impact that rocks from space have had on our culture, and on our knowledge of where we come from - and where they come from - may surprise you. As will their impact on the planet of course, should you be lucky enough to see a "fall" * Jon Butterworth *

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe essential illustrated rocks and minerals guide.Learn how to identify rocks and minerals and appreciate the beauty of the natural world with Rocks & Minerals: An Illustrated Field Guide. Expert geologist Dr. Evelyn Mervine takes you through 50 profiles of these natural materials, including their characteristics, chemical compositions, occurrences, and key identifiers.Take a deep dive into geology and learn all about rocks and minerals, including: Granite Limestone Meteorite Quartz Diamond Gold And many, many more!Complete with a glossary of terms and beautiful illustrations by Vlad Stankovic, this visually stunning book is a must-have for rock hounds and geologists alike.

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe geology of the Cairngorms was created on a timeline that stretches back hundreds of millions of years. Much of the land is underlain by granite that formed deep within the Earth's crust and 'surfaced' as the overlying layers of rock were stripped away by ice, wind and water. The bedrock is hard, and although the area has been heavily glaciated, still boasts 18 Munros, the highest of Scotland's peaks. The area attracts climbers, walkers and assorted adventurers who want to pit themselves against some of the most challenging conditions to be found anywhere in the UK. The plants and animals of the Cairngorms need to be hardy to survive the severe winter conditions. The higher reaches of the mountains are rich in montane vegetation such as lichen-rich heath and other habitats support many rare species.Trade Review'Alan McKirdy’s insights are valuable because he is the author of a string of accessible and informative short illustrated books on the geological history of Scotland' * West Highland Free Press *'Not only are they a wealth of information on Scotland's past, they offer valuable insight as Scotland’s future becomes increasingly uncertain due to climate change' * Dundee Courier *

Read more less

Book SynopsisLonglisted for the Highland Book Prize 2019 The rocks of northern Scotland tell of turbulent events involving continental collisions that unleashed cataclysmic forces, creating a chain of mountains, the remnants of which we see today on both sides of the Atlantic. Geologists from Victorian times onwards have studied the area, and some of the most important geological phenomena have been established and described from the rocks that built these stunning landscapes. In this book, Alan McKirdy makes sense of the many and varied episodes that shaped the familiar landscape we see today. He highlights a number of fascinating geological features, including the Old Red Sandstones of Cromarty and the Black Isle, which carry the secrets of life during ‘the Age of Fishes’, and the thin sliver of fossil-bearing strata which hugs the coast from Golspie to beyond Helmsdale that dates back to Jurassic times and which records the time when dinosaurs roamed the Earth.Trade Review'Alan McKirdy’s insights are valuable because he is the author of a string of accessible and informative short illustrated books on the geological history of Scotland' * West Highland Free Press *'Not only are they a wealth of information on Scotland's past, they offer valuable insight as Scotland’s future becomes increasingly uncertain due to climate change' * Dundee Courier *

Read more less

Book SynopsisAll landscapes are built on rock: from hard stone for building with, to the softest clay or sand. Each piece of rock is a storehouse of prehistorical information; even a simple pebble from the garden has its own complex tale to tell. Geology is the great detective science that can unlock these secrets. In this entertaining and eye-opening book, the authors take a deep dive – quite literally – into their home county of Essex. We are all living in an ice age, an ongoing event that has hugely affected Essex over the last 3 million years. Yet this county was born more than 500 million years ago. Our story begins when the land we know as Essex was part of a large continent close to the South Pole, tracing the geological processes that continue to shape the countryside around us. The form of the land, boulders on village greens, road cuttings, cliffs, stones in church walls – they can all bring geology to light in unexpected and fascinating ways. Aimed at a general readership with no scientific background but equally appealing to the seasoned geologist, chapters progress from fundamentals to intricate details of geological investigations and cutting-edge research. Richly illustrated with photographs and colour diagrams, here the geology of a county is visualised and brought to life as never before, along with pertinent environmental insights in the light of climate change that is happening now.Trade ReviewI have one word left for this book 'brilliant'. -- Chris Darmon * Down to Earth *I was stunned by the quality of the photographs and diagrams which support the clear and lucid text...Ian and Ros Mercer take the reader on a fascinating journey encompassing Essex's geological history. -- Nicholas Pierpoint, Magazine of the Geologists' AssociationThe authors have done a great service to the naturalist community in producing enjoyable, readable text without sacrificing erudition...Essential for anyone with an interest in Essex and soft-rock landscapes, this book is also for the person who just thinks they might be interested. After a few minutes you surely will be. -- Dr Chris Gibson, British Naturalists AssociationI thoroughly recommend this book. It is one of the best I have reviewed in recent years. -- Jon Trevelyan, Deposits MagThis book is an exemplary treatment of the subject and is highly recommended. -- Mick Massie * The London Naturalist *Table of Contents1. Reconstructing Essex 2. The rocks of Essex 3. The deep history of Essex 4. The geological structure of Essex 5. The drowning of the island 6. Seashores and swamps 7. Palm trees and crocodiles 8. Giant sharks and shell banks 9. Ice age Essex 10. Looking into the Essex landscape 11. Uncovering Essex geology 12. Rock and people 13. The future of Essex rock Sites and views of Essex Geological collections and displays Index Maps and charts About the authors

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe characteristic landscape of the Lake District is influenced by its geology. The huge array of different rocks found there determines the shape and appearance of the fells and dales. Also, as the dominant building material in the region, rocks impact both the local architecture and the economy through quarrying. A simple easy-to-read guide to the rocks of the English Lake District, with nearly 200 colour illustrations including diagrams, maps and photographs, this book provides an understanding of the main types of rock and characterizes over sixty of the most common rocks. It describes where to find them and how to recognise them in the landscape. Details are given of the use of rocks in local buildings and how the rocks are still quarried today, and finally, their importance to the local economy.

Read more less

Book SynopsisThis book is one of a popular and exciting series that seeks to tell the story of some of Britain's most beautiful landscapes. Written with the general reader - the walker, the lover of the countryside - firmly in mind, these pages open the door to a fascinating story of ancient oceans, deltas, mineralization and tundra landscapes. Over millions of years the rocks that now form the spectacular terrains of the White Peak and the Dark Peak were laid down on the floors of tropical seas and deformed by plate tectonics before being shaped by streams and rivers. The white limestone was fretted into its own distinctive landscape above hidden cave systems; then generations of miners and farmers modified and contributed to the landscapes we see today. With the help of photographs that are largely his own, geologist Tony Waltham tells the remarkable story of the Peak District, explaining just how the landscapes of limestone plateau, grit moors and river valleys came to look as they do. Including suggestions for walks and places to visit in order to appreciate the best of the National Park's landforms, this accessible and readable book opens up an amazing new perspective for anyone who enjoys this varied and beautiful area.Trade ReviewBeautiful, full colour photos and diagrams, a fascinating chapter on each of the important geological and geomorphological aspects of the area (including buildings and industry), and an author who knows his stuff and can write it down with an easy and authoritative style. -- Jon Trevelyan * Deposits magazine *It holds a wealth of knowledge for cavers, as well as walkers and other users of England’s first National Park and will no doubt please newcomers and seasoned Peak District lovers alike. -- John Cordingley * Cave and Karst Science *Overall a book that I would recommend to anyone with an interest in the Peak District who wishes to gain more “in depth” knowledge of the area without having to digest the many scientific works on the area because the author has done it for you. -- Richard Shaw * Peak District Mines Historical Society News *This recently published book tells the story of the evolution of the Peak District's rocks and scenery. Beautifully illustrated, it is written for the general reader and contains numerous stunning photographs and excellent explanatory diagrams. -- Peter Jones * National Stone Centre Newsletter *As one might expect from a book by Tony Waltham, this is a richly illustrated read. Many of Tony’s photographs would happily grace a calendar, and every page has at least one carefully chosen illustration. For the geologists, whether with casual or professional interest in the Peak District, this makes for a visually beautiful book and is bound to provide new insights. It is certainly no field-guide. More something to cherish reading during a dark winter evening (or enforced lockdown) to remind oneself of the great interest of the Peak District geology and beauty of its landscape and to start planning your next visit with a fresh perspective. -- Colin Waters * Yorkshire Geological Society Circular *It is written at about the same level as geological sections of the Journal of the Russell Society, and is therefore readily comprehensible to the general reader and is highly recommended. -- Richard Batemen, reviewer Russell Society * Journal of the Russell Society *This attractive volume is an excellent overview of the landscape and geology of the Peak District by a geologist with an intimate knowledge of the area. It is a thoroughly readable and enjoyable book. -- Tim Colman, reviewer Mercian Geologist * Mercian Geologist *This publication is welcome and timely. The book provides fascinating insight into the landscape and geology of the Peak District. The author is to be congratulated for providing such a wealth of information and illustrations in a book of its size. -- Colin J Serridge, GeoScientist reviewer * Geoscientist - magazine of the Geological Society of London *I have read and dipped into many books on the geological aspects of the Peak District and I have enjoyed any of my previous virtual excursions as much as this one. 'The Peak District' receives my fullest recommendation. It deserves to be widely read and, indeed, imitated. It will, I feel certain, become a standard for such guides. -- Kenneth Donovan, reviewer Geology Today * Geology Today *

Read more less

Book Synopsis1. Introduction Treasure' from a mineral hunt.- 2. The Sunda Arc - Western Indonesia's magma factory.- 3. The Batak Tumor The bulge before the blast.- 4. The Haranggaol Dacite Tuff (HDT) - Explosive eruptions commence.

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe first in an exciting new series that tells the story of some of Britain's most beautiful landscapes. Written with the general reader - the walker, the lover of the countryside - firmly in mind, this opens the door onto a fascinating story of ancient oceans, forests, shallow seas and ice. Over millions of years the stunning limestone landscape has been laid down at the bottom of tropical seas, deformed by movements in the earth's crust and shaped giant glaciers and, in our own time, the simple effects of rivers and rain water. With the help of dramatic photographs, expert geologist Tony Waltham tells the engrossing story of the Dales, explaining just how the landscape of caves, moors and valleys comes to look as it does. Including guided walks specially designed to show off and explain the best of the national park's landforms, The Yorkshire Dales - Landscape and Geology will open up an amazing new perspective for anyone who loves this wild and beautiful area.

Read more less

Book SynopsisTrade Review"Shortlisted for the Phi Beta Kappa Award in Science, Phi Beta Kappa Society""Finalist for the 2019 Los Angeles Times Book Prize in Science & Technology""Winner of the 2019 PROSE Award in Popular Science & Popular Mathematics, Association of American Publishers""Longlisted for the 2019 PEN/E.O. Wilson Prize for Literary Science Writing Award, PEN American Center""One of EcoLit Books' Best Environmental Books of 2018""A Choice Outstanding Academic Title of the Year"

Read more less

Book SynopsisA lithic love letter

Read more less

Book SynopsisThis book is intended to be the most complete and up-to-date guide to the geology and fossils of the New Forest, providing a wealth of information of interest to both the amateur fossil collector and the professional geologist. It includes some 200 field photographs, palaeogeographic maps, digitised borehole/outcrop logs, and geological cross sections. Also included is a tour of the regional geological evolution of southern England since the Permian Period (-280 million years ago), based on deep boreholes and coastal exposures, including the world-famous Jurassic coast of Dorset and east Devon. The author discusses the petroleum geology of southern England and the New Forest and gives a detailed overview of the stratigraphy of the Hampshire Basin, followed by related aspects of economic geology within this area, including ironstones, freshwater aquifers, geothermal energy, sand, clay and peat resources. Finally, there is an up-to-date and complete account of the principal fossil localities, together with a comprehensive gallery of photographs with accompanying descriptions of the most abundant fossils within the New Forest National Park.Trade ReviewThere are lots of good UK guides like this one, to areas such as Dorset and Yorkshire, and many areas of Scotland and Wales, for example.. another excellent example of that genre. In fact, this is the book is the first I have seen on the New Forest of Hampshire. -- John Trevelyan * Deposits Magazine *Dr Barnet's guide is a handy and well written book that any geologist - professional or amateur - interested in Palaeogene life will find informative and of practical use. -- Dr David M. Jones, OUGS Proceedings Editor * Proceedings of the Open University Geological Society Volume 7 2021 *Before visiting a new area, I always like to check out the geology (doesn’t everyone?) and will definitely be taking this book with me when I go to the New Forest. The aim of being a complete guide to the geology and fossils of the area is achieved in an engaging and accessible way. -- Caroline Jones * Geoscientist - magazine of the Geological Society of London *

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe crash of the Indian plate into Asia is the biggest known collision in geological history, and it continues today. The result is the Himalaya and Karakoram - one of the largest mountain ranges on Earth. The Karakoram has half of the world''s highest mountains and a reputation as being one of the most remote and savage ranges of all. In this beautifully illustrated book, Mike Searle, a geologist at the University of Oxford and one of the most experienced field geologists of our time, presents a rich account of the geological forces that were involved in creating these mountain ranges. Using his personal accounts of extreme mountaineering and research in the region, he pieces together the geological processes that formed such impressive peaks.Trade ReviewBeautifully illustrated. * Independent i *Entertaining and informative, Colliding Continents is an easy read which should appeal to anyone with even a little interest in geology. * Danny Yee, dannyreviews.com *All can learn from the master in this excellent book. * Jonathan Wright, Geographical *There's something here to please anyone on the geology spectrum: the student wanting to understand how the fundamentals are applied; the academic intrigued by the science; the climber dreaming of virgin territory. All can learn from the master in this excellent book. * Simon Cook, Oman Daily Observer *This is a wonderful record of Mike Searles 30 year geological explorations of the high mountains of Asia. He writes as clearly and concisely as he talks, always making huge geological dramas intelligible and interesting to the layman as well as to the expert. Whether you view the Himalaya and Karakoram as a giant exercise bar or a place for spiritual renewal, you will find this geological history of the high mountains of Asia absolutely fascinating. * Doug Scott, Climber and Amateur Geologist *An intimate anatomy of the greatest mountain range in the planet, revealed by a geologist who has walked, scrambled and climbed over virtually every inch of it. * Iain Stewart, Geologist and Broadcaster *Table of ContentsPreface 1: Oceans and continents 2: Continents in collision: Kashmir, Ladakh, Zanskar 3: The dreaming spires of the Karakoram 4: Pressure, temperature, time, and space 5: Frozen rivers and fault lines 6: Northwest Frontier: Kohistan, Hindu Kush, Pamirs 7: Faces of Everest 8: Mapping the geology of Everest and Makalu 9: Mountains and Maoists: Annapurna, Manaslu 10: Around the bend: Nanga Parbat, Namche Barwa 11: Roof of the World: Tibet, Pamirs 12: Extruding Indochina: Burma, Vietnam, Yunnan, Thailand 13: The day the Earth shook: Sumatra-Andaman earthquake 2004 14: The making of Himalaya, Karakoram, and Tibetan plateau Postscript Acknowledgements Appendix 1: Basics Appendix 2: Glossary Appendix 3: Local glossary Appendix 4: Chronology Notes Index

Read more less

a huge range and FREE tracked UK delivery on ALL orders.

Read more less

Book SynopsisIllustrates the bedrock geology of northern England and Scotland on one sheet. South sheet is also available. The map is explained in a companion booklet. Also available as a booklet and map pack.

Read more less

Book SynopsisIllustrates the bedrock geology of England and Wales on one sheet. North sheet is also available. The map is explained in a companion booklet. Also available as a booklet and map pack.

Read more less

Book SynopsisIntroduces the reader to the basic principles of archaeological mapping and planning. It presents both the mathematical and the practical backgrounds, as well as many tips and tricks. This will enable archaeologists to create acceptable maps and plans of archaeological remains, even with limited means of in adverse circumstances.Table of Contents1. Theoretical Background: Points, Lines, Angles and Polygons; 2. Theoretical Background: The Third Dimension; 3. Practical Mapping and Planning: Finding North; 4. Practical Mapping and Planning: Field Walking; 5. Practical Mapping and Planning: Measured Plans and Maps; 6. Epilogue: Data Reduction; Further Reading.

Read more less

Book SynopsisA SUNDAY TIMES BOOK OF THE YEAR 2017A rich and exuberant group biography of the first geologists, the people who were first to excavate from the layers of the world its buried history. These first geologists were made up primarily, and inevitably, of gentlemen with the necessary wealth to support their interests, yet boosting their numbers, expanding their learning and increasing their findings were clergymen, academics and women. This lively and eclectic collection of characters brought passion, eccentricity and towering intellect to geology and Brenda Maddox in Reading the Rocks does them full justice, bringing them to vivid life. The new science of geology was pursued by this assorted band because it opened a window on Earth's ancient past. They showed great courage in facing the conflict between geology and Genesis that immediately presented itself: for the rocks and fossils being dug up showed that the Earth was immeasurably old, rather than springing from aTrade ReviewReading the Rocks, the latest book by the frighteningly prolific biographer Brenda Maddox, relates how a handful of British men – and one woman – blasted out the intellectual cutting through which the theory of natural selection would follow … Maddox, whose previous biographical scalps include George Eliot, DH Lawrence and Rosalind Franklin, has a fine eye for idiosyncrasy, the primacy of money and the sheer squawking rivalrousness of the academic world’ -- Oliver Moody * The Times *If you liked Jenny Uglow’s The Lunar Men, you’ll enjoy this colourful group biography of the Victorian gentleman geologists and fossil-hunters (not all of whom were gentlemen) who established that the Earth was formed somewhat before 4004BC – which was the widely accepted date before those little geological hammers started chipping away. Maddox writes elegant, old-school scientific-biographical history, and she shapes this story neatly as a prequel to Charles Darwin’s better-known one -- Books of the Year * Sunday Times *Brenda Maddox’s new book is about this magic moment in the history of modern geology … the overall result is a fascinating picture of scientific life, and of fundamental changes in thinking, over a vital half-century ***** * Daily Telegraph *Maddox’s book is a fascinating group biography of the pioneers of geology who eventually inspired Charles Darwin to develop his theory of evolution … Maddox brings to life the personalities of the time and conjures superbly the excitement and controversy that the new science caused -- Ian Critchley * Sunday Times *The rock/collecting geek in me loved this enthralling group biography in Lunar Men-style of the first geologist -- A History Pick of the Month * Bookseller *The intricacy of detail, such as professional jealousies and the finger points of controversies, will appeal to specialists, but the leavening of this scholarly book with a wealth of incidental information, from Lyell’s views on slavery to Wordsworth’s thoughts on the violations of Mother Nature, ensures that it will also be of interest to the general reader * Country Life *

Read more less

Book SynopsisAn introduction to the geology of Egypt and its influence on ancient Egyptian cultureWhile much is known about Egypt’s towering pyramids, mighty obelisks, and extraordinary works of art, less is known about the role played by Egypt’s geological history in the formation of pharaonic culture’s artistic and architectural legacy. The fertile soils that lined the Nile Valley meant that the people of Egypt were able to live well off the land. Yet what allowed ancient Egypt to stand apart from other early civilizations was its access to the vast range of natural resources that lay beyond the Nile floodplain.In this engagingly written book, Colin Reader invites readers to explore the influence of geology and landscape on the development of the cultures of ancient Egypt. After describing today’s Egyptian landscape and introducing key elements of the ancient Egyptian worldview, he provides a basic geological toolkit to address issues such as geological time and major earth-forming processes. The developments that gave the geology of Egypt its distinct character are explored, including the uplifting of mountains along the Red Sea coast, the evolution of the Nile river, and the formation of the vast desert areas beyond the Nile Valley. As the story unfolds, elements of Egypt’s archaeology are introduced, together with discussions of mining and quarrying, construction in stone, and the ways in which the country’s rich geological heritage allowed the culture of ancient Egypt to evolve. Ideal for non-specialists and specialists alike, and supported with over one hundred illustrations, A Gift of Geology takes the reader on a fascinating journey into Egypt’s geological landscape and its relationship to the marvels of pharaonic culture.Trade Review"Fascinating . . . hugely ambitious . . . .This is a book that should be on every Egyptologist’s bookshelf."—Ancient Egypt Magazine"[A] travel-sized masterclass. . . . The breadth of this volume makes it perfect for anyone wanting to ground their knowledge of ancient Egypt into a geographic reality, and it should be essential reading for undergraduates in the field."—Egyptian Archeology "A fascinating overview of the Egyptian landscape and the long geological processes that gave rise to one of the world's most unique civilizations."—The Explorers Journal“[A] congenial . . . easy read. . . . a delight.”—Litro Magazine"An authoritative, valuable, accessible introduction to Egypt's geology and its influence on understanding ancient Pharaonic Egyptian culture. Highly recommended. Lower- and upper-division undergraduates. Graduate students, faculty, and professionals. General readers."—CHOICE"Colin Reader is an established authority in Egyptology, and one of only a handful to have specialist knowledge of both geology and ancient Egypt, expertise now distilled into this very readable volume."—Chris Naunton, author of Egyptologists' Notebooks“Colin Reader’s guide to all things geological in Egypt is the perfect handbook for the interested lay reader. Colin takes us from the vast swaths of geological time, across the full range of Egyptian landscapes, to the archaeological context for the building of the pyramids and the quarrying of the unfinished obelisk. His illustrated book is a comprehensive geological companion and, with its suggested further reading, a starting point for deeper investigation.”—Judith Bunbury, University of Cambridge"In this book, Colin Reader skillfully combines his long-standing and scholarly interest in Egyptology with his professional career as a geologist. The result is an accessible, engaging, and up-to-date account of Egypt’s natural landscape and how it came to support the ancient Egyptians’ civilization. This work also successfully demonstrates how events taking place over millions of years are connected to the modern, built environment with which we are familiar today. In this way, A Gift of Geology takes the reader on a deeper exploration of ancient Egypt, encouraging us to think not only in dynasties and periods, but also in eras and eons."—Glenn Godenho, University of LiverpoolTable of ContentsList of FiguresIntroductionChapter 1 The Egyptian LandscapeChapter 2 An Introduction to GeologyChapter 3 The Geology of Egypt Part 1- The Pre-CambrianChapter 4 The Geology of Egypt Part 2 – The Palaeozoic and MesozoicChapter 5 The Geology of Egypt Part 3 – The Cenozoic: a land of riversChapter 6 The Evolution of the River NileChapter 7 The Eastern DesertChapter 8 The Western Desert Part 1Chapter 9 The Western Desert Part 2Chapter 10 Mining and Quarrying.Chapter 11 Building in Stone in Ancient EgyptChapter 12 The Interaction of Monuments and LandscapeChapter 13 A Gift of GeologyFurther Reading

Read more less

Book SynopsisLying off the south-western tip of Mull, the island of Iona has huge significance as the first important centre of Christianity in Scotland. But the Abbey itself is built upon rocks that tell of events of much greater antiquity: the Lewisian gneisses of western Iona are some of the oldest rocks in the world. Alan McKirdy explores the fascinating geology of the area - in particular the eruption of two major volcanoes around 60 million years ago whose magma chambers formed the spectacular hills and glens of the Ardnamurchan peninsula and Glen More on Mull; and the Ice Age, when glaciers ripped away much of the upper part of the two volcanoes and sandpapered the landscape to create the rounded contours we see today.Trade Review'Alan McKirdy’s insights are valuable because he is the author of a string of accessible and informative short illustrated books on the geological history of Scotland' * West Highland Free Press *'Not only are they a wealth of information on Scotland's past, they offer valuable insight as Scotland’s future becomes increasingly uncertain due to climate change' * Dundee Courier *

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe written history and archaeological records of Central Scotland takes us back to Pictish times some 5,000 years ago. The geology of the area stretches back a further 400 million years. The oldest rocks are found near Lesmahagow and in the Pentland Hills. Known geologically as ‘inliers’– small areas of rocks from an older age, surrounded by younger strata – these strata have yielded some of the oldest fish on earth and are highly prized for what they tell us about early life on the planet. Rocks of the Old Red Sandstone and the succeeding Carboniferous era underlie the rest of Central Scotland in almost equal measure. Explosive volcanic rocks, thick layers of lava, desert sandstones, limestones and productive coal measures make up this bedrock patchwork. Then, sometime later, a covering of ice, some two kilometres thick, blanketed the landscape. It sandpapered and burnished the bedrock into the familiar scenes we see today – our matchless Scottish landscape. The coal and iron ore which lay beneath the ground between Edinburgh and Glasgow provided the raw materials that drove the Industrial Revolution in Scotland, and the early focus on understanding the rocks beneath our feet was unsurprisingly initially concentrated on the most useful minerals resources.Trade Review'Alan McKirdy’s insights are valuable because he is the author of a string of accessible and informative short illustrated books on the geological history of Scotland' * West Highland Free Press *'Not only are they a wealth of information on Scotland's past, they offer valuable insight as Scotland’s future becomes increasingly uncertain due to climate change' * Dundee Courier *

Read more less