In an age where understanding our planet’s changing environments is increasingly vital, a foundational knowledge of the Earth sciences has never been more relevant. Understanding Earth as it was before human influence not only enriches our understanding of the planet’s past, but also informs our view of how it is changing.
Explaining the Earth is written for readers without a scientific background. It’s an accessible and concise overview, perfectly suited to the increasing interdisciplinary interest in the Earth sciences, and to general readers with a curiosity about the planet’s composition, environments and systems.
Covering an array of topics, it provides a dynamic introduction to Earth’s physical and atmospheric sciences, from the forces that shaped our landscapes after the last Ice Age, to the depths of the oceans and the peaks of mountain ranges. It also explores rock types, geological processes, ‘hidden’ aspects like Earth’s electromagnetic field and internal pressures, as well as the influence of changing landscapes on human evolution and civilization.
Essentially, author Paul Binns provides a clear and engaging explanation of Earth’s workings. Illustrated throughout and including a glossary of key terms, it’s a book that fosters a deeper understanding and appreciation of the beauty of our planet, and its future.
Table of Contents:
Chapter 1: Introduction. Chapter 2: Discovering the Earth Sciences. Chapter 3: Landscapes Shaped by Ice. Chapter 4: From Mountain Peaks to Ocean Deeps. Chapter 5: Walks Across Rocks. Chapter 6: Mountain Ranges. Chapter 7: Rivers. Chapter 8: Deserts Hot and Cold. Chapter 9: The Atmosphere and the Oceans.
Chapter 10: The Hidden Earth. Chapter 11: Humans and Landscapes. Glossary. References and Further Reading.
About the Author :
Paul Binns worked for the British Geological Survey and for Shell International. Following retirement he worked with the Shell Learning Centre, C&C Reservoirs and was an Honorary Professor at Heriot Watt University.
Review :
'Explaining the Earth: An Introduction to the Earth and its Systems is an attractive and highly accessible introduction to the planet and its major systems. [...] The prose is lucid without being patronising, and complex processes are rendered understandable, without being reduced to oversimplification. [...] it serves as a bridge – from curiosity to structured understanding, and from introductory overview to deeper study. A helpful glossary clarifies essential terminology, and the extended further-reading lists at the end of chapters provide thoughtful signposts for readers who wish to pursue particular topics in greater depth. In this respect, the book recognises its audience and supports it well.' Jon Trevelyan, Deposits magazine
