Earth's Dynamic SystemsThere are two major pathways for the flow of energy and matter on Earth: (1) the hydrologic system-the circulation of water over Earth's surface and through its atmosphere powered by energy from the Sun, and (2) the tectonic system-the movement of material powered by heat from Earth's interior. These two unifying themes form the backbone of "Earth's Dynamic Systems," providing a logical, well-crafted, spectacularly illustrated introduction to physical geology. NEW TO THIS EDITION: GeoLogic-Geologists have a unique way of "reading" the landscape and rocks. These essays illustrate in words and images how modern geologists interpret the world around us. Updated and Enhanced Student CD-ROM: Includes dozens of high-quality animations, photographs, and videos. Guided Tours: These animated tours of Earth's major landforms illustrate key concepts in a way the printed word and still pictures cannot. Slideshows: Written and photographed by the authors, the slideshows expand on the text with additional photographs and explanations. Videos and animations: Gathered from geologists around the world, these illustrate both fundamental concepts and how modern geologists study Earth |
Common terms and phrases
accumulate areas asthenosphere atmosphere atoms basalt carbon caused chemical cliffs climate commonly composition continental crust continents convergent plate cools Courtesy crystal debris deep deformation delta deposited develop dikes divergent plate Earth's Dynamic Earth's surface earthquakes eroded erosion eruptions example Figure flood basalts fracture geologic glacial glaciers grains granite groundwater heat hydrologic system igneous rocks ions island lakes landforms landslides lava flows layers limestone lithosphere magma major mantle plumes melting metamorphic rocks million minerals move movement North occur ocean floor oceanic crust oceanic ridge patterns planet plate boundaries plate margins plate tectonics precipitation pressure processes produced quartz radiometric dating regions regolith result rhyolite rift river rock bodies sand sandstone sea level seafloor sediment sedimentary rocks seismic sequence shale shield shoreline shows silicate slope soil stable platform stream structure subduction zone temperature texture thick transform fault types valleys velocity volcanic wave weathering wind