Encyclopedia of Earth Sciences: Volume I (Geology, Geochemistry, Seismology, Hydrology and Mineralogy)

Research on Earth's history and of the physical and chemical characteristics of the matter that makes up our planet is of great importance to understand both its past and its future. The geographical and other environmental processes on Earth and the composition of the planet are of crucial significance in locating and utilizing its resources. This book is primarily written for experts, geologists, civil engineers, mining engineers, and environmentalists. We are hopeful that the content will be used by students, and it will continue to be useful to them throughout their following professional and research careers. This does not mean that the book was printed solely keeping students in mind. Instead, from the point of view of experts in Environmental Science, it can be argued that this book contains more features than they will require in their primary studies or research. The book extensively covers topics such as geology, geochemistry, seismology, petroleum geology, hydrology, hydrogeology and mineralogy.