Branches of Geology:

Physical Geology

Ismailia STEM High School

Made by: Habiba Walid
(habiba.1720520@stemismailia.moe.edu.eg)

Supervisor: Mrs. Hanan Attia

 Table of contents

• Introduction 2

• Physical Geology 2

• Branches of Physical Geology 3

• Conclusion 6

• References 6

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 Introduction
Geology and geology branches:
Geology is the study of the Earth,
its structure, and the processes
that shape it. This field is
organized into several branches
that focus on different aspects of
Earth's geology. Geology is
divided into two main branches:
physical geology and historical
geology. Physical geology is the
study of the Earth's physical
properties, processes, and history.
This field of geology focuses on
understanding the structure, Fig 1

composition, and behavior of the Earth's materials and how they have changed
over time. Some of the key sub-disciplines of physical geology include structural
geology, mineralogy, petrology, geophysics, sedimentology, and geomorphology.
Historical geology, on the other hand, is the study of the Earth's past and the events
that have shaped it. This branch of geology focuses on understanding the evolution
of life on Earth, the changes in the Earth's climate and geography over time, and
the processes that have led to the formation of rocks and minerals. Some of the key
sub-disciplines of historical geology include paleontology, stratigraphy, and
geochronology. Together, physical geology and historical geology provide a
comprehensive understanding of the Earth and its history, as well as its future
evolution.

Physical Geology
Physical geology is the study of the Earth's physical properties, processes, and
history. This field of geology is concerned with understanding the materials that
make up the Earth, including rocks, minerals, and other geological formations, as

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well as the forces that shape and change them over time. Physical geologists
investigate the internal structure of the Earth through the study of seismology,
gravity, and other geophysical methods, and they seek to understand the processes
that drive plate tectonics, earthquakes, and volcanic activity. Additionally, physical
geology encompasses the study of surface processes, such as erosion, weathering,
and sedimentation, and the formation of landforms such as mountains, canyons,
and glaciers. Through their work, physical geologists contribute to our
understanding of the Earth's past, present, and future, and help us to better
appreciate the dynamic and complex nature of our planet.
One of the key areas of study within physical geology is plate tectonics, which is
the theory that explains the movement and interaction of the Earth's lithospheric
plates. Plate tectonics has revolutionized our understanding of the Earth's geology
and has allowed us to better understand the formation of mountains, volcanoes, and
other geological features. It has also provided insight into the distribution of
natural resources such as oil, gas, and mineral deposits.
Another important area of study within physical geology is geologic time, which is
the study of the Earth's history and the events that have shaped it. Geologic time is
divided into different units based on major geological and biological events, and
provides a framework for understanding the evolution of life on Earth and the
changes in the Earth's climate and geography over time.
Physical geology also has important practical applications, particularly in the field
of natural hazards. By understanding the geology of an area, geologists can better
predict and prepare for natural hazards such as earthquakes, landslides, and
volcanic eruptions. Physical geology is also important for resource exploration and
management, as it provides insight into the distribution and origin of natural
resources such as oil, gas, and mineral deposits.

Branches of Physical Geology

1. Structural Geology: Structural geology is the study of the deformation and
movement of rocks within the Earth's crust. This branch of geology focuses on
understanding the processes that create geological structures such as faults, folds,
and joints. Structural geologists use a variety of tools and techniques, including

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fieldwork, laboratory analysis, and
computer modeling, to study the
behavior of rocks under stress and strain.

2. Mineralogy: Mineralogy is the study

of minerals, which are naturally
occurring substances with specific
chemical compositions and crystal
structures. Mineralogists study the
Fig 2 (Structural Geology)
physical and chemical properties of
minerals, as well as their formation and occurrence in the Earth's crust. This
branch of geology is important for understanding the formation of mineral deposits
and the properties of rocks and soils.
3. Petrology: Petrology is the study of rocks and their formation. Petrologists
study the origin, composition, and properties of rocks, and use this information to
better understand the geological processes that have shaped the Earth's crust. This
branch of geology is important for understanding the formation of mountains,
volcanoes, and other geological features.
4. Geophysics: Geophysics is
the study of the physical
properties and behavior of the
Earth. Geophysicists use a
variety of techniques, including
seismic imaging, gravity and
magnetic surveys, and electrical
resistivity measurements, to
study the Earth's internal
structure, composition, and
behavior. This branch of
geology is important for
understanding plate tectonics,
natural hazards such as earthquakes Fig 3 (Geophysics)
and volcanic eruptions, and the distribution of natural resources such as oil and
gas.

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5. Sedimentology: Sedimentology is the study of sedimentary rocks, which are
formed from the accumulation and cementation of sediment. Sedimentologists
study the processes that transport sediment, such as rivers and glaciers, as well as
the physical and chemical properties of sedimentary rocks. This branch of geology
is important for understanding the Earth's climate history, as well as the formation
of fossil fuels and mineral deposits.
6. Geomorphology: Geomorphology is the study of landforms and their evolution
over time. Geomorphologists study the processes that shape the Earth's surface,
such as erosion, weathering, and sedimentation. This branch of geology is
important for understanding the formation of mountains, rivers, and coastlines, as
well as the impact of human activities on the landscape.
7. Volcanology: Volcanology is the study of
volcanoes and volcanic activity. Volcanologists
study the physical and chemical properties of
volcanic rocks and gases, as well as the
behavior of volcanic eruptions. This branch of
geology is important for understanding the
hazards posed by volcanoes, as well as the
formation of igneous rocks and mineral deposits. Fig 4 (Volcanology)

8. Hydrogeology: Hydrogeology is the study of groundwater, its movement, and

its interaction with the Earth's surface and subsurface. Hydrogeologists study the
physical and chemical properties of groundwater, as well as the processes that
control its movement through the Earth's crust. This branch of geology is important
for understanding the availability and quality of water resources, as well as the
impact of human activities on groundwater systems.
9. Glaciology: Glaciology is the study of glaciers and ice sheets, their formation,
movement, and interaction with the Earth's climate system. Glaciologists study the
physical and chemical properties of ice, as well as the processes that control the
movement and melting of glaciers. This branch of geology is important for
understanding the Earth's past and present climate, as well as the impact of climate
change on ice sheets and sea level.
10. Planetary Geology: Planetary geology is the study of the geology of planets
and other celestial bodies in our solar system. Planetary geologists study the
physical and chemical properties of rocks, soils, and other materials on these
bodies, as well as the processes that shape their surfaces. This branch of geology is
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important for understanding the history and evolution of our solar system, as well
as the potential for extraterrestrial life.

Conclusion
Physical geology is a critical field of study for understanding the Earth's physical
properties and processes. It provides insight into the Earth's structure, plate
tectonics, minerals and rocks, and geologic time. By understanding these
components of physical geology, we can better predict and prepare for natural
hazards such as earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and landslides. Physical geology
also provides a foundation for exploring the Earth's past, present, and future
evolution.

References
- American Geosciences Institute. (n.d.). What is geology?
https://www.americangeosciences.org/geoscience-basics/geology
- American Geosciences Institute. (n.d.). What is physical geology?
https://www.americangeosciences.org/geoscience-basics/physical-geology
-Foresman, T., Johnson, R., & Smith, J. E. (2000). EarthComm: Earth system
science in the community. Kendall/Hunt Publishing Company.
- American Geosciences Institute. (n.d.). Geophysics.
https://www.americangeosciences.org/geoscience-basics/geophysics
- Mineralogical Society of America. (n.d.). Mineralogy.
https://www.minsocam.org/msa/Handbook/Mineralogy.html
- Geological Society of London. (n.d.). Volcanology.
https://www.geolsoc.org.uk/Geoscientist/Archive/April-2014/Volcanology
- American Geosciences Institute. (n.d.). Hydrogeology.
https://www.americangeosciences.org/critical-issues/faq/what-hydrogeology

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- Geological Society of America. (n.d.). Sedimentology.
https://www.geosociety.org/GSA/Education_Careers/Geology_Careers/Sedimentol
ogy.aspx
- Encyclopedia Britannica. (n.d.). Petrology.
https://www.britannica.com/science/petrology

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