Physical Geology, 15th Edition

Physical Geology, 15th edition, is the latest refinement of a classic introductory text that has helped countless students learn basic physical geology concepts for over 25 years. Students taking introductory physical geology to fulfill a science elective, as well as those contemplating a career in geology, will appreciate the accessible writing style and depth of coverage in Physical Geology. Hundreds of carefully rendered illustrations and accompanying photographs correlate perfectly with the chapter descriptions to help readers quickly grasp new geologic concepts. Numerous chapter learning tools and a website further assist students in their study of physical geology.

Table of Contents

Chapter 1. Introducing Geology, the Essentials of Plate Tectonics, and Other Important Concepts
Chapter 2. Atoms, Elements, and Minerals
Chapter 3. Igneous Rocks, the Origin and Evolution of Magma, and Intrusive Activity
Chapter 4. Volcanism and Extrusive Rocks
Chapter 5. Weathering and Soil
Chapter 6. Sediment and Sedimentary Rocks
Chapter 7. Metamorphism and Metamorphic Rocks
Chapter 8. Time and Geology
Chapter 9. Mass Wasting
Chapter 10. Streams and Floods
Chapter 11. Groundwater
Chapter 12. Glaciers and Glaciation
Chapter 13. Deserts and Wind Action
Chapter 14. Waves, Beaches, and Coasts
Chapter 15. Geologic Structures
Chapter 16. Earthquakes
Chapter 17. Earth’s Interior and Geophysical Properties
Chapter 18. The Sea Floor
Chapter 19. Plate Tectonics—The Unifying Theory
Chapter 20. Mountain Belts and the Continental Crust
Chapter 21. Global Climate Change
Chapter 22. Resources
Chapter 23. The Earth’s Companions