Typically, Earth scientists use tools

from geology, chronology, physics, chemistry, geography, biology, and mathematics to build a
quantitative understanding of how Earth works and evolves. For example, meteorologists study
the weather and watch for dangerous storms. Hydrologists examine water and warn of
floods. Seismologists study earthquakes and try to understand where they will strike. Geologists
study rocks and help to locate useful minerals. Earth scientists often work in the field—perhaps
climbing mountains, exploring the seabed, crawling through caves, or wading in swamps. They
measure and collect samples (such as rocks or river water), then record their findings on charts and
maps.

Geology[edit]

Layers of sedimentary rock in Makhtesh Ramon

Geology is broadly the study of Earth's structure, substance, and processes. Geology is largely the
study of the lithosphere, or Earth's surface, including the crust and rocks. It includes the physical
characteristics and processes that occur in the lithosphere as well as how they are affected
by geothermal energy. It incorporates aspects of chemistry, physics, and biology as elements of
geology interact. Historical geology is the application of geology to interpret Earth history and how it
has changed over time.
Geochemistry studies the chemical components and processes of the Earth. Geophysics studies the
physical properties of the Earth. Paleontology studies fossilized biological material in the
lithosphere. Planetary geology studies geoscience as it pertains to extraterrestrial
bodies. Geomorphology studies the origin of landscapes. Structural geology studies the deformation
of rocks to produce mountains and lowlands. Resource geology studies how energy resources can
be obtained from minerals. Environmental geology studies how pollution and contaminants affect soil
and rock.[2] Mineralogy is the study of minerals and includes the study of mineral formation, crystal
structure, hazards associated with minerals, and the physical and chemical properties of minerals.
[3]
Petrology is the study of rocks, including the formation and composition of rocks. Petrography is a
branch of petrology that studies the typology and classification of rocks. [4]