Books in Introduction to Earth Science series

Some of the planets most destructive forcesincluding earthquakes and volcanic activityare caused by the same factors that helped shape much of the Earth as it is today. Plate tectonics, or movement of the Earths outer layers, can occur in a number of different ways and produce a range of results, some minor and others far more considerable or devastating. Distinct maps, interesting sidebars, and annotated illustrations of the Earths layers are included in this volume, which details the motion of the planet and the nature and study of both earthquakes and volcanoes.

Perhaps the most prominent elements in the patchwork pattern formed by Earths regions and ecosystems are its deserts, grasslands, and rainforests. Though vastly different from one another and often separated by thousands of miles, these biomes are all life-sustaining components of a larger environmental network. This volume examines each of these captivating regions in turn as well as the various species that thrive within them. Vivid images provide colorful glimpses of the vistas and organisms that comprise each biome.

Together, minerals, rocks, and fossils communicate much about Earths history. Much more than ornaments on a landscape, minerals and rocks are significant components of the planets foundation, while fossils contain clues as to the various life forms that once inhabited the planet. Readers are invited to take a closer look at the materials that have, in many ways, facilitated life, and to explore the types and categories of minerals, rocks, and fossils alike.

The sub-zero temperatures and glacial conditions to which the polar regions of the Earth are often subject would make it difficult for many of us to survive there for long periods of time. Yet life is present in both the Arctic and Antarctic, and the lure of discovering new territories and resources has attracted both researchers and explorers to these icy expanses. Readers will journey alongside some of the early expeditions and will learn about the conditions and life that comprise the polar ecosystems.

From the food available at the local store to the clothes we choose to wear every day, weather determines many of the major decisions we make and the actions we pursue. While we may not be able to control the weather, understanding the factors that cause a hurricane or allow us to plant certain crops, for example, can help us better prepare for both natural disasters and our daily lives. Detailed illustrations and photographs, interesting sidebars, and the topical narrative of this volume examine the conditions associated with different types of weather and the methods used to measure and forecast weather data.

Contained in the immensity and depths of the Earths oceans, many of the planets species and resources thrive far away from the reaches of human civilization. With expanses that have yet to be discovered and enormous reservoirs of untapped potential, oceans provide fodder for all manners of research. This informative volume describes the features and properties of the bodies of water that make up 70 percent of the worlds surface as well as the various branches of oceanography dedicated to studying all aspects of the ocean and its life forms.

Everyone in the world needs food to live. Much of our food is grown and raised on farms. Modern farms use technology to improve the health of our food and how much is produced. But farming technologies and shipping food long distances can cause pollution. Find out why food is so important, how it is produced, and the steps we can all take to cut down food waste.

Everyone in the world needs food to live. Much of our food is grown and raised on farms. Modern farms use technology to improve the health of our food and how much is produced. But farming technologies and shipping food long distances can cause pollution. Find out why food is so important, how it is produced, and the steps we can all take to cut down food waste.