Introducing Geology: A Guide to the World of Rocks(Introducing Earth and Environmental Sciences)

Our world is made of rock. Although much of the Earth’s surface is covered by vegetation, concrete or water, if one digs down far enough solid rock will always be found. Those who live in a landscape where rock outcrops are obvious will have wondered about the kind of rocks they are looking at and how they came to be where they are now.Graham Park’s introductory book has swiftly established itself as a key resource for those looking for a straightforward explanation of what geology tells us about the world. Many objects of great beauty and which excite our curiosity, such as crystals or fossils, are to be found by examining rocks. In particular fossils, whilst interesting in themselves, tell us from their context in geological time of biological evolution and these clues give an insight into the origins of life on earth.Copiously illustrated this book is intended for those whose interest in geology has been awakened, perhaps by media coverage of earthquakes or of dinosaurs, and want to know more. It has proved an ideal primer for those considering the study of earth sciences more formally. Technical terms are kept to a minimum and are explained in a glossary.

Table of Contents:
Acknowledgements. List of tables and illustrations. Sourced illustrations. Preface: A world of rock; 1: Crystals, minerals and gemstones; 2: Volcanoes and melted rock; 3: Shaping the land; 4: Mud, sand and other deposits; 5: Moving continents and making mountains; 6: Earthquakes and faults; 7: Squeezing and stretching – rock deformation; 8: Geological time and the age of the Earth; 9: Fossils – a history of life; 10: Turning the pages – Earth history; 11: Geology and industry. Glossary. Further Reading.

About the Author :
Graham Park is Emeritus Professor of Tectonic Geology at Keele University and author of numerous books and scientific papers on earth science topics.

Review :
'This little book, packed full of information, is one of a series of ‘Introducing …’ volumes published by Dunedin. It is a useful reference book for those starting a study of geology or returning to study. I have been using the first edition (and subsequent Dunedin guides) with my two groups of U3A adult learners for the past couple of years, as a substitute for a school textbook and as a basis for the monthly talks I give. My ‘senior’ students have found it much more appropriate to adult learners than a school textbook: they commented that the glossary was particularly useful and the text easy to understand. The language is accessible and the text richly supplemented by many colour photographs and diagrams… The small format, wealth of information and modest price make this a very useful addition to my bookshelf.' Proceedings of the OUGS ‘a key resource for both amateur and professional geologists alike, remarkably squeezing virtually all the basics of our subject into some 135 pages with many informative illustrations.' European Geologist 'For any basic level geology book to succeed, it needs to be well written and include great pictures and diagrams - and this book does not disappoint - This little guide covers everything you would expect from a basic level geology book, including the rock cycle, plate tectonics, fossils and industrial uses for geology. It also includes a great glossary.' Deposits Magazine ‘a great little book...in this book Graham Park has captured the spirit of geology...packed with essential information...For the price, basic level geology books do not come any better.’ Geoscientist