Customer Reviews

Essentials of Geology (8th Edition)

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This book is intended as a text for the collegiate course in physical geology. The course encompasses a general overview of the physical processes by which the Earth continues to develop, both gradually and by sudden events of great magnitude. Plate tectonics, volcanism, erosion, mountain building and shaping, mineralogy, mass wasting, the impact of man, glaciation, and all other manner of things are clearly discussed in nineteen separate chapters. The color photography and diagrams are remarkably good, and closely follow the text, which is a real boon, especially to a student who is hard-pressed for time. The coverage is up-to-date and accurate in all respects. Many of the photographs, such as the those of the eruptions at Montserrat, are very current.

Given the fact that physical geology is the first of six courses required for any geology degree, and that any well-informed person should have no trouble understanding the contents of this book, I would recommend it to any reader interested in earth science, student or not.

Had to buy this for a class I was auditing. GREAT diagrams and pictures. Figure 19.22 on page 460, "The evolution of life through geologic time" has literally changed my life. It finalized my view on how life came to be. It shows the fossilized progression of life from the first cyanobacteria 3.8 billion years to the evolution of the genus Homo. I'm convinced Darwin was right. Since that metamorphic moment, I have done little (I'm retired) other than read about evolution and its battle for acceptance in the non-scientific world.

Excellent book - well written too.

I have an earlier edition of this book and use it frequently as a reference for all things having to do with matter, minerals, rocks, soils, weathering, and so on. The content is well-organized, explanations are clear, and the abundant photos aid understanding.

I got the book quickly and it was in great condition. There was writing on the inside, but for such an inexpensive book, it was totally worth it!

This was our first experience to buy books for college on Amazon. Our experience was Great! Thanks for your help!

Good course book, just be sure you need it for the class. Some professors don't require you to have it, so if you can save the money, by all means...DO IT!

The book has a wealth of information, I have enjoyed reading it, and using it in my class.

If you are taking a Geology class, this book is very helpful. Its easy to read, and has many pictures.