Rocks and minerals are the building blocks of our world, but there’s a huge and fascinating variety of these materials, from the roundest gray pond rock to the most brilliant and sparkly diamond. Readers will learn about all manner of rocks and minerals, as well as their properties, types, and uses. Color photos and diagrams allow curious geologists in training to study rocks and minerals in detail, while hands-on activities and projects will encourage them think for themselves about important principles.
To the untrained eye, one rock looks like another. But for the geologists who study them, rocks tell stories. Whether rocks are igneous, sedimentary, or metamorphic, each one holds clues about EarthÕs history and formation. From dynamic creation to wave battered erosion, get ready to discover the science of rocks and the people who love them.
Technical Engineering and Design Guides, as adapted from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, No. 13 This manual provides guidance on effective and economical selection, evaluation, and use of large-stone materials in construction.ØRanging from geology to technically based construction contracting, this book reviews the wide spectrum of engineering applications of large stone, potential problems in its use, and factors affecting its performance. In addition, chapters summarize pertinent aspects of contracts and construction and explain good engineering practice in evaluating materials and sources of materials. Topics include: slope protection retention dikes breakwaters jetties zone embankments geological mapping laboratory and field methods of stone testing contractor quality control and monitoring stone production.
The first field guide that allows amateur rock enthusiasts to identify basic rocks and rock formations in a systematic way Many of us are fascinated by rocks—but identifying them can seem daunting. It’s often tricky even for geologists, who rely on experience, intuition, and in-depth familiarity with rock-forming components. Rocks and Rock Formations allows everyone, amateur or professional, to successfully distinguish these amazing masses of minerals, using only careful observation, a magnifying glass, a pocket knife—and a bit of patience. Jürg Meyer provides a structured approach to the identification of all rocks within the three groups: sedimentary, igneous, and metamorphic. Bringing together more than 530 diagrams and photographs to illustrate essential characteristics, Meyer highlights some basics on rocks—their mineral constituents, structures, textures, fossils, weathering patterns, and more—which are important for a determination. The main part of the book is a handy and thorough identification key, which takes into account all possible rock variations, mixtures, and structural differences. The concluding section of the guide delves into rock systematics. Assuming little prior experience or knowledge, Rocks and Rock Formations is an invaluable resource for rock enthusiasts everywhere. Suitable for beginners and amateurs Helpful, systematic identification key Exploration of all types of rocks More than 530 diagrams and photographs
