Geology

earth science · rocks · planet

Rocks tell stories. Geologists read rocks like detectives, finding clues about Earth's past hidden inside layers of stone. These clues show us ancient oceans, old mountains, and even when dinosaurs walked the land.

Earth is always changing. Our planet never stays still. Rocks are pushed up into mountains, worn down by water and wind, and recycled deep inside Earth where heat and pressure turn them into brand new rocks.

The word comes from Greek. Geology means 'the study of Earth' from the ancient Greek words for 'earth' and 'study.' Scientists have been using this name for hundreds of years.

Connected to everything Earth. Geologists work with weather scientists, ocean experts, and planetary scientists because all of Earth's systems are linked together. Understanding rocks helps us understand water, air, and the whole planet.

Time on a huge scale. Geologists think in millions and billions of years, not days or centuries. This helps them understand how slowly mountains form and why rocks from deep underground can tell us what Earth was like long ago.