Geology is the study of Earth's structure, composition, and processes. It includes analyzing rocks, minerals, and geological history to understand Earth's evolution.

The rock cycle explains the transformation between igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic rocks. Rock changes occur through processes like melting and cooling, weathering and erosion, and heat and pressure.

Minerals have distinct properties such as color, streak, hardness, and luster. Identification involves tests like scratching for hardness and observing streak color.

Plate tectonics describes the movement of Earth's lithospheric plates atop the astronspheric mantle. This theory explains events like earthquakes and the formation of mountain ranges.

Seismic waves provide insights into Earth's layered structure, revealing the existence of a liquid outer core and solid inner core through wave propagation studies.

Seismic waves reveal Earth's layers; P-waves travel through all, S-waves only through solids. This indicates a liquid outer core. The waves help map out internal structures with varying densities and states.

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Geologists use field methods like geological, structural, and stratigraphic mapping to chart rock formations and study landscapes, aiding in resource exploration and environmental study.

Petrologists analyze rock samples using optical microscopy and electron microprobe to understand rock origins and compositions, revealing geological processes.

Planetary geology applies Earth-based geological principles to study other celestial bodies, investigating their composition, history, and potential for past or present life.

Geology's development has crucially impacted our understanding of Earth's history, resources, and natural hazards, guiding exploration and conservation efforts globally.