Publisher's Synopsis
From the author who defined the environmental geology course, this text presents geologic processes in context with their impact on humans, our lives and societies. The author's goal is to both create informed citizens and nurture an understanding of geologic science. Brief and written for the introductory, non-science student, this text is also appropriate for physical geology courses emphasizing an environmental perspective. *Brief (14 chapters) coverage of environmental geology arranged in four parts: - Part One introduces philosophy and fundamental concepts, the structure of the Earth and plate tectonics, and the origin and significance of rocks and minerals. - Part Two addresses the major natural hazards including earthquakes, volcanic activity, rivers and flooding, landslides, and coastal processes. - Part Three addresses the major natural resources associated with the geological environment and the subject of pollution. - Part Four presents the important topic of global change, environmental management, and relationships between the environment and society.;*Chapter organization helps aid student study and understanding by providing: - Chapter-opening "Case Histories" to immediately engage students to apply a real-world situation to the material they are about to study. - Selected case histories and "Closer Look" boxes are included throughout the text to heighten student interest. This material is separated from the text so students might better focus on these enrichment sections. - End-of-chapter pedagogy includes summaries, detailed reference/additional reading suggestions, and critical thinking questions. These questions stimulate students to think about important issues and to relate them to their lives and society.
