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Science subjects may be studied from two viewpoints, in this case:
- the theoretical study of the Earth, its history and development;
- the practical application of this knowledge for the benefit of the humans who live on the Earth.
Not only does the Earth provide us with a home, food to eat and water to drink, but it gives us all the fuels and
raw materials we use, which, too often perhaps, we take for granted.
The "Applied Geology" Study Guide describes how we use rocks and minerals, structures and landforms to enhance our
lives.
The Guide also highlights some of the problems we have caused when using the Earth in an inappropriate manner -
through lack of understanding, or maybe by wanting too much - and describes some of our solutions to the problems
which we have created.
Water, oil and gas can be stored in porous and permeable aquifers. The water comes to the surface as springs or we can abstract it through wells and boreholes. The misuse of underground water supplies may lead to problems associated with over-use and pollution. Artesian wells can be an essential source of water, especially in desert areas. The construction of dams and reservoirs provides a source of water for drinking and for generating electricity; they also help with flood control. Finding the best site requires a geological appreciation of the factors involved. We generate a lot of rubbish each year. What is the best way of disposing of it? Are any geological influences involved? What particular problems are posed by radioactive waste? All major construction work requires a geological input, particularly regarding foundations. Buildings and bridges place a heavy load on the ground. If the rockhead is deep, or the bedrock is weak, then engineering solutions are required to make good any deficiency in load-bearing capacity. Tunnels take rock out of the ground. Are good foundation rocks the same as good tunnelling rocks? The surface of the Earth is rarely flat. Hillsides can be unstable, creating a hazard for communities which lie in their shadow. Artificial slopes are often made steeper than nature intended, and engineering techniques are needed to keep them stable. We rely on the Earth to supply our needs - fuels, chemicals, building materials. Each one requires a particular method of extraction, and each provides a number of hazards during or after extraction operations, to the miners and to the environment. Our coastline is constantly changing, by erosion and deposition. Erosion presents a threat to property, and large amounts of money are spent trying to prevent it. In some cases, human interference actually causes the erosion. The Study Topics include examples to illustrate the principles of Applied Geology, and two separate Case Studies, describing landslips and metal ore mines, are included. To order the "Applied Geology" Study Guide, as a CD or by download, please visit our on-line store |