Earth and Beyond: An Introduction to Earth-Space Science Laboratory Manual

Scientists have begun to realize that we cannot consider the different parts of the natural world separately. Why? Because the different disciplines of science (geology, physics, chemistry, and biology) are too interconnected to draw any meaningful conclusions about their place in the world if only considered in isolation. Earth Science is really a synthesis of all the major sciences. Everything in the universe is bound by the laws of physics, chemistry, and mathematics. Geoscientists use this body of knowledge along with mapping science techniques to study the nature of Earth and the universe that surrounds it. Thus, the body of knowledge generated by geoscientists could really be thought of as a user’s manual for Planet Earth.

This book explores the three major aspects of Earth Science and how they impact the lives of everyone who calls Planet Earth home:

• Weather and Climate – Why does weather occur? Why does weather vary from place to place and over time? How do meteorologists forecast the weather? What is climate and what causes it to change over time?
• Geology – What is plate tectonics and how does plate tectonics shape Earth’s geography? How do rocks form? What do rocks tell us about Earth’s past? What are surface processes and how do they shape the land? What are the major geologic hazards and how can we protect ourselves from these hazards?
• Astronomy – What are the techniques astronomers use to study the universe? How did the solar system form? What are the main parts of the solar system? How do stars form? What are galaxies?