Examines geologic rocks and rocks structures, such as natural bridges, stone pillars, mountains and volcanoes, and their origins.

Praise for the previous edition: ...refreshingly clear...will entertain the reader with the wonders of the rock world, and will enhance an understanding of the natural environment... Recommended for all audiences, from high school upward. CHOICE Clearly written and illustrated

This is a discount Black and white version. Some images may be unclear, please see BCCampus website for the digital version.This book was born out of a 2014 meeting of earth science educators representing most of the universities and colleges in British Columbia, and nurtured by a widely shared frustration that many students are not thriving in courses because textbooks have become too expensive for them to buy. But the real inspiration comes from a fascination for the spectacular geology of western Canada and the many decades that the author spent exploring this region along with colleagues, students, family, and friends. My goal has been to provide an accessible and comprehensive guide to the important topics of geology, richly illustrated with examples from western Canada. Although this text is intended to complement a typical first-year course in physical geology, its contents could be applied to numerous other related courses.

An introduction to the world's most fascinating caves. This work explores every nook and cranny of these nature-made creations, including lava caves, sea caves, and glacial caves, from Kentucky's Mammoth Cave, to the amazing Paleolithic paintings of Lascaux, to Fingal's Cave of Scotland, which inspired Mendelssohn's Hebrides Overture.

Chronicles the origins, history, and structure of the world's most famous gorges, from North America's Grand Canyon to western Australia's Windjana Gorge. This book also discusses tectonic activity, undersea canyons, liquid rock, and pinpoints scientific studies and modern-day ecological challenges.

From exploring the basic principles of geology to starting a rock and mineral collection, The Practical Geologist is the perfect introduction to the world of earth science. Beginning with a history of the earth's formation and development, this book explores the substances that compose the planet, movements within the earth, the surface effects of weather and water, and underground landscapes. It shows you how to search for, identify, and extract samples of various rocks and minerals, and for each rock and mineral type there is a brief mineralogy and explanation of its locations. There are also sections on mapping, preparing, and curating specimens, and geological sites on the six continents. Packed with more than 200 full-color illustrations, this comprehensive guide is the essential practical companion for natural science enthusiasts everywhere.