FACULTY OF ENGINEERING

DEPARTMENT OF MINING AND GEOLOGICAL

ENGINEERING
GLEN 223
ASSIGNMENT 1
JESSICA THEBE
STUDENT ID: 21000317
QUESTION
DESCRIBE IN DETAIL THE FOLLOWING SUBDIVISIONS OF GEOLOGY.
a. Structural geology
The branch of geology that deals with the form, arrangement, and internal structure of rocks,
and especially with the description, representation, and analysis of structures, chiefly on a
moderate to small scale. The subject is similar to tectonics, but the latter is generally used for
broader regional or historical phases. It is the scientific discipline that is concerned with rock
deformation on both a large and a small scale. Its scope of the study is vast, ranging from
submicroscopic lattice defects in crystals to fault structures and fold systems of the Earth’s
crust.
b. Geo-physics
It is a subject of natural science concerned with the physical processes and physical
properties of the Earth and its surrounding space environment, and the use of quantitative
methods for their analysis. The term geophysics classically refers to solid earth applications:
Earth's shape; its gravitational, magnetic fields, and electromagnetic fields; its internal
structure and composition; its dynamics and their surface expression in plate tectonics, the
generation of magmas, volcanism, and rock formation.
c. Exploration Geology
It is the process of finding commercially viable mineral resource and the objective is to
locate it in the shortest possible time and at the lowest possible cost. Exploration approach
design and the myriad activities of exploration cycle are described. The important ingredients
of a successful exploration are (1) selection of right geological terrain, (2) optimum level of
funding, and (3) keeping pace with the state-of-the-art exploration technology. Adoption of
right combination of techniques is warranted to conduct exploration in a cost-effective
manner.
d. Mineralogy
It is a subject of geology specializing in the scientific study of the chemistry, crystal
structure, and physical (including optical) properties of minerals and mineralized artifacts.
Specific studies within mineralogy include the processes of mineral origin and formation,
classification of minerals, their geographical distribution, as well as their utilization.
e. Engineering geology
It is the application of geology to the engineering study for the purpose of ensuring that the
geological aspects related to the site, scheme, construction, process, and maintenance of
engineering works are recognized and taken into consideration. It is the application of
geological knowledge to engineering problems.