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Home › Geology |
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Geology is the study of the Earth. An understanding of Earth processes is essential to help mitigate losses resulting from natural disasters; to sustain the Nation's supplies of water, energy, and mineral resources; to provide for the advantageous development of the Nation's physical and economic infrastructure; and to enhance and preserve the quality of the environment. A significant component of geology involves mapping. Rocks, land surfaces, and currents in the oceans and atmosphere are mapped through direct contact or by using remote sensing from aircraft, satellites, and ships. Remote sensing also maps features hidden from view, such as the ocean floor or properties far below the Earth's surface. Geologists also map the location and magnitudes of processes as they change today. Such mapping may include recording surface elevations to measure subsidence, measuring earthquake ground motions, gaging streams gaging to determine rates and volumes of river flows, measuring gas emissions from volcanoes to forecast eruptions, or monitoring levels of water tables. Geologist also make maps that reconstruct such processes throughout the history of the Earth's 4.6 billion years. This information is fundamental to the sound management of our lands, water, and other natural resources. It improves the safety, health, and well-being of Americans. A general geologic map by itself provides an extraordinary
The National Atlas of the United States® includes a variety of maps germane to geology. The Geologic Map of the United States was derived from the first national geologic map put together since the advent of plate tectonics, a theory that created a revolution in our knowledge of the Earth and its history. The map has been produced at a scale that is appropriate for use as an overview of the geology of the entire country. Also included in the National Atlas is a dynamic map known as the Tapestry of Time and Terrain. This multimedia package has many intriguing features that weave together the topographic texture of the conterminous United States with its patterns of geologic time. In addition, more specialized maps related to geology are included in the National Atlas: maps devoted to specific hazards, such as landslides, earthquakes, and volcanoes; a shaded relief map that looks like an aerial photograph; maps that characterize energy and mineral resources and operations; and a series of rather technical maps that display many of the complex patterns associated with the Earth's magnetic field, which is vital for managing telecommunication systems. |
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![]() National Atlas of the United States® and The National Atlas of the United States of America® are registered trademarks of the United States Department of the Interior Privacy Statement, Disclaimer, Accessibility, FOIA http://nationalatlas.gov/geology.html Last modified: April 29, 2008 14:54 |
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