GEOLOGICAL

PROSESSES AND
HAZARD

GEOLOGICAL PROCESSES

Geologic Processes involve interactions of the atmosphere,

biosphere, cryosphere, hydrosphere, and lithosphere. The
USGS defines Geologic Processes as all types of processes
affecting geologic structures.

FOUR MAJOR OF GEOLOGICAL PROCESSES

impact cratering, volcanism, tectonics, and erosion.

IMPACT CRATERING

formed when an object like an asteroid or meteorite

crashes into the surface of a larger solid object like a
planet or a moon.

VOLCANISM
Volcanism is the eruption of molten rock from inside the
Earth to the surface. Volcanism occurs because of Earth's
internal heat, and is associated with tectonic processes and
a part of the rock cycle. Volcanic eruptions occur when
molten lava reaches the surface of the Earth.

TECTONICS

branch of geology concerned with the structure of the

crust of a planet (as earth) or moon and especially with the
formation of folds and faults in it.

EROSION

Erosion is the geological process in which earthen materials are worn

away and transported by natural forces such as wind or water.

TSUNAMI

A tsunami is a series of ocean waves caused by an

underwater earthquake, landslide, or volcanic eruption.

EARTHQUAKE

An earthquake is the sudden release of strain energy in the

Earth's crust, resulting in waves of shaking that radiate
outwards from the earthquake source.