Description
Book SynopsisPhysical Geology Today combines a deep integration of plate tectonics with an emphasis on conceptual understanding in order to paint an integrated picture of how Earth works. Damian Nance and Brendan Murphy blend clear engaging prose with hundreds of meticulously crafted illustrations to tell a clear and accessible geologic story that introduces the right amount of terminology at the right time.
Trade ReviewThe authors present an excellent, progressive history of the development of plate tectonics that students should be able to follow. It is, quite frankly, the best presentation of this topic that I have read in an introductory textbook. * Daniel Hembree, Ohio University *
I really like the writing style. It is clear, expository, and also accurate and unambiguous. I actually thought I was reading a textbook written by John McPhee in a few passages, and I cannot think of a higher compliment to pay to the authors. * Stephen D. Lewis, California State University-Fresno *
Physical Geology Today is an excellent textbook for introductory courses, because it uses clear language and real-world examples to engage students without oversimplifying big concepts. * Julie Hoover, Durham Technical Community College *
The level of writing is perfect for beginning science students. The authors weave the story together well, incorporating bits of information from other chapters in order to promote the 'big' picture. * Stacey Verardo, George Mason University *
A visually compelling, easy to access text. * John Van Hoesen, Green Mountain College *
The level is appropriate for anybody who actually wants to learn the science of geology. This text enables students to have enough information to develop much needed (and called for) critical thinking skills in the geologic domain. * Scott Brame, Clemson University *
This text is well written, easy to follow and interesting for students. These authors clearly know how to make geology interesting. * Tim Bralower, Penn State University *
This is first-rate text that brings geology to readers in an accessible and exciting way. * Joachim Dorsch, St. Louis Community College-Meramec *
The check your understanding questions and review questions area great features that will help students. * John Creasy, Bates College *
Table of ContentsPART I. THE SOLID EARTH; 1. FOUNDATIONS OF MODERN GEOLOGY; 2. PLATE TECTONICS; 3. MINERALS; 4. ORIGIN AND EVOLUTION OF IGNEOUS ROCKS; 5. WEATHERING AND SOILS; 6. SEDIMENTATION AND SEDIMENTARY ROCKS; 7. METAMORPHISM AND METAMORPHIC ROCKS; PART II. EVOLUTION OF THE SOLID EARTH; 8. GEOLOGIC TIME; 9. PLATES AND PLATE BOUNDARIES; 10. DEFORMATION AND MOUNTAIN BUILDING; 11. EARTHQUAKES AND EARTH'S INTERIOR; PART III. SCULPTING THE SOLID EARTH; 12. MASS WASTING; 13. RUNNING WATER; 14. GROUNDWATER; 15. GLACIERS AND GLACIATION; 16. DESERTS AND WINDS; 17. COASTLINES AND COASTAL PROCESSES; PART IV. EARTH'S RESOURCES; 18. MINERAL DEPOSITS AND INDUSTRIAL MATERIALS; 19. ENERGY RESOURCES; PART V. EARTH AND BEYOND; 20. PHYSICAL GEOLOGY AND CLIMATE CHANGE; 21. THE PLANETS
