Dynamic Earth

Catalog description

Focuses on the 4.6-billion year physical and geochemical evolution of Earth, with emphasis on planetary interior and surface processes through time that have resulted in current concentrations of fundamental chemical elements necessary to sustain modern civilization. Specific topics include: (1) elemental abundances and differentiation of the early solar system and Earth; (2) formation of Earth's compositional and rheologic layers; (3) interactions among planetary spheres with focus on biogeochemical cycles; (4) multi-scale tectonics (plate tectonics, continental deformation, igneous and earthquake processes, and mountain building). Provides an essential scientific context for understanding Earth system processes fundamental to environmental science.