Principles of Geology

Principles of geology refer to fundamental concepts that explain how Earth's materials, structures, and processes interact over time. Key ideas include the rock cycle, which describes the formation, breakdown, and reformation of rocks; uniformitarianism, which suggests that the processes shaping the Earth today have operated similarly in the past; and stratigraphy, which studies rock layers to understand Earth's history. By examining fossils, mineral types, and geological formations, geologists uncover the planet's past and predict future changes, providing insights into natural resources and environmental concerns.