Introduction to Earth

Science

What is Earth Science?

• Earth science is the study of Earth and the

universe around it

• Uses observations and experimentation to

discover the causes of natural events

The Importance of Earth Science

An understanding of natural forces can

help predict potential disasters

• We also need to understand conservation

of natural resources

Cultural Contributions

• China: kept records of

earthquakes (780 BC)

• Ancient Greeks:

cataloged rocks and

minerals (200 BC)

• Mayans: tracked

celestial movements

Branches of Earth Science

• There are four major areas of study:

geology, oceanography, meteorology, &

astronomy

Geology

• The study of the

origin, history,

processes, and

structure of the solid

Earth

• Examples:

volcanologist studies

volcanoes

Geology

• This study includes: rocks, soil, layers of

the Earth, volcanoes, earthquakes, fossils,

and plate tectonics.

Geology Careers

• Volcanologist

• Seismologist

• Geophysicist

• Geologist

Geology Careers

• Volcanologist-studies volcanoes

• Seismologist-studies earthquakes

• Geophysicist-studies physical properties of

solid earth (used in construction)

• Geologist-studies rocks, minerals, and

landforms

Oceanography

• The study of Earth’s

oceans

Oceanography

• Examples of studying oceanography

includes: waves, tides, or ocean currents,

ocean floor, salinity/ocean composition,

and the water cycle

Oceanography Career Options

• Marine biologist

• Oceanographer

• Hydrologist

Oceanography Careers

• Marine biologist-studies life forms in the

ocean

• Oceanographer-studies the ocean

• Hydrologist-studies water and the water

cycle

Meteorology

• The study of Earth’s

atmosphere,

especially weather

and climate

• Examples:

meteorologists use

Doppler radar to track

storms

Meteorology

• Includes the studying of weather, types of

clouds, dangerous elements such as

hurricanes, tornadoes, and floods

Meteorology Careers

• Meteorologist-studies the atmosphere and

weather

• Climatologist- studies climate and the

effects of climate

Astronomy

• The study of the

universe beyond Earth;

the study of all physical

things beyond Earth

• Oldest branch of Earth

Science

• Example: space

exploration

Astronomy

• Astronomy includes the study of planets,

solar system, galaxies, satellites, comets,

and stars

Astronomy Careers

• Astronomer-scientist who studies stars

and planets

• Astronaut-travels in space

What’s Next?

• Your goal is to create and color a picture

on the outside of your doors that matches

the various branches…