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…