Physical Geology from Udemy

What is this course about?

This course is THE ultimate course on Physical Geology out there. Physical Geology is the study of the materials of the Earth, the different Geological process that operates beneath and on the surface, and the history and development of our planet. Physical geology is a MUST 101 prerequisite for students majoring in Geology, Geophysics, Paleontology, Petroleum Engineering, or ANYONE interested in exploring Earth.

This course contains over 15 sections and 79 lectures, exploring all aspects of Physical Geology. The sections are:

Introduction
Solar System
Geological Time
Inside Earth
Plate Tectonics
Weathering
Deserts & Winds
Minerals
Sedimentary Rocks
Metamorphic Rocks
Igneous Rocks
Deformation
Volcanos
Mass Wasting
Surface Water

How is the course structured?

The structure of the course is funnel-shaped. It starts with the formation of the solar system, and the different bodies in it. Then it moves to explore Earth’s structure, materials, and the different forces that act in and outside. Each section is concerned with exploring one particular aspect of Physical Geology, in several lectures. The lectures are packed with information, delivered through beautiful, and clear videos, making the learning process fun and exciting.

I’m a BIG believer in visual learning and I have made sure to pack the lectures with pictures that explain the concepts. Even if you don’t have the luxury to go outside and see an anticline, for example, you still have the chance to see a picture and recognize it when you see it in real life.

How do I learn better?

There are quizzes after each section so you can test your knowledge and see how much of the material you have learned. I suggest you go through each lesson several times to better understand the contents, and be able to connect it with the rest of the materials in the course.

What's inside

Learning objectives

Explore earth’s internal structure.
Get to know our solar system, and the different bodies in it.
Explore plate tectonics, its driving forces, and how cool geological features like mountains are built.
Learn about fossils, numerical and relative dating.
Learn what are detrital, chemical and organic sedimentary rocks.
Understand the processes by which nature creates coal.
Understand the factors that lead to mechanical weathering.
Understand the factors that lead to chemical weathering.
Grasp metamorphism and factors leading to it.
Understand what is magma, how it originates, and how crystallization occurs.

Explore different kinds of folds & faults.
Comprehend the stages of rock deformation and what makes folding and faulting possible.
Learn why volcanoes erupt violently and what comes out out of them.
Learn the anatomy of a volcano.
Learn the different zones of a river.
Learn about minerals, their formation, and tools used in their identification.
Differentiate between angular unconformity, disconformity, and nonconformity
Learn about types of landslides and their triggers.
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Explore earth’s internal structure.
Get to know our solar system, and the different bodies in it.
Explore plate tectonics, its driving forces, and how cool geological features like mountains are built.
Learn about fossils, numerical and relative dating.
Learn what are detrital, chemical and organic sedimentary rocks.
Understand the processes by which nature creates coal.
Understand the factors that lead to mechanical weathering.
Understand the factors that lead to chemical weathering.
Grasp metamorphism and factors leading to it.
Understand what is magma, how it originates, and how crystallization occurs.
Explore different kinds of folds & faults.
Comprehend the stages of rock deformation and what makes folding and faulting possible.
Learn why volcanoes erupt violently and what comes out out of them.
Learn the anatomy of a volcano.
Learn the different zones of a river.
Learn about minerals, their formation, and tools used in their identification.
Differentiate between angular unconformity, disconformity, and nonconformity
Learn about types of landslides and their triggers.
Show more
Show less

Syllabus

Promo Video

DISCLAIMER

Introduction

Geology

Importance

Development

the Scientific Method

Solar System

OverView

the Sun

the Moon

Terrestrial Planets

Jovian Planets

Other Solar Bodies

Chapter Quiz

Geologic Time

Relative Dating

Numerical Dating

Fossils

The Geologic Time Scale

Inside Earth

Earth's Internal Structure

The Videos in this lecture are not created by the instructor, but taken from "Built to Last: Understanding Earthquake Engineering" by Yu-Sung Chang. The instructor doesn't take any credit for the work, and the sole purpose of this copy is to enhance visualization and understanding processes.

The link to the article is here: ( http://blog.wolfram.com/2011/03/18/built-to-last-understanding-earthquake-engineering/ )

Plate Tectonics

Continental Drift

Modern Evidence

Earth's Major Plates

Motion Drivers

Here is a link to UNAVCO, a website that enables you to calculate tectonic plate motion at any location on Earth.

http://www.unavco.org/software/geodetic-utilities/plate-motion-calculator/plate-motion-calculator.html

Continental Margins

Ocean Floor Features

Oceanic Crust Layers

Destruction of Oceanic Crust

Features of Subduction Zones

Mountains

Topography

Weathering

Mechanical Weathering

Chemical Weathering

Spheroidal Weathering

Soil

Deserts & Winds

Deserts

Wind Erosion

Wind as a Transporter

Wind Deposits

Minerals

Atom

Periodic Table

Bond-s

Formation

Mineral Identification

Crystalline Habits

Sedimentary Rocks

Detrital Sedimentary Rocks

Grain History

The video in this lecture is NOT owned by the instructor of this course, but taken from YouTube channel, gebowie . Click here for the link to the video (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t9ebeNZghNw)

Coal

Sedimentary Rocks Identification Table

Sediments to Sedimentary Rocks

Sedimentary Structures

Metamorphic Rocks

Metamorphism

Metamorphic Drivers

Metamorphic Texture

Igneous Rocks

Magma

Igneous Texture

Deformation

Deformation Stages

Folds

Faults & Joints

Volcanoes

Volcanic Eruptions

Extruded Material

Volcanic Landforms

Volcanic Hazards

Mass Wasting

Here is link to a YouTube video showing massive landslides caught on camera. This video is NOT owned by the instructor of this course.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=chWk1v50KfQ

Types

Triggers

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Taught by Miran Fattah, who is an active instructor in the geology community

Provides a comprehensive foundation for beginners in Physical Geology

Content is delivered through clear and engaging videos

Covers the key concepts of Physical Geology, making it suitable for a broad audience

Emphasizes visual learning with abundant illustrations and examples

Includes hands-on quizzes and exercises to test understanding

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Physical Geology with these activities:

Explore 'Earth: An Introduction to Physical Geology' by Tarbuck and Lutgens

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Supplement your learning with a comprehensive and up-to-date textbook on physical geology.

View Earth on Amazon

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Obtain a copy of the textbook.
Read the chapters assigned in the course.
Take notes and highlight important concepts.
Complete the chapter exercises and review questions.

Review Earth's Internal Structure

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Refresh your understanding of Earth's Internal Structure to build a stronger foundation for future lessons

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Review your notes or textbook on the topic of Earth's Internal Structure.
Watch videos or documentaries about the topic.
Take practice quizzes or tests to check your understanding.

Participate in a Field Trip or Outreach Program

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Gain practical experience and connect with professionals in the field.

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Identify local organizations or institutions that offer geological field trips or outreach programs.
Contact the organizers and inquire about available opportunities.
Attend the field trip or outreach program, actively participating and asking questions.
Reflect on your experience and how it relates to the concepts you're learning in the course.

Four other activities

Expand to see all activities and additional details

Show all seven activities

Explore Interactive Simulations of Geological Processes

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Utilize online simulations to visualize and understand geological processes.

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Find reputable websites or platforms that offer interactive simulations.
Select simulations that align with the concepts you're learning in the course.
Follow the instructions and explore the simulations, adjusting parameters and observing the outcomes.
Reflect on your observations and how they relate to the course material.

Build a Model of Plate Tectonics

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Construct a physical or digital model to demonstrate your understanding of plate tectonics.

Browse courses on Plate Tectonics

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Gather materials such as cardboard, clay, or foam.
Design your model, including the different plates and their boundaries.
Construct your model, paying attention to the scale and accuracy of the features.
Label the different parts of your model and include a legend or key.

Solve Practice Problems on Rock Types and Processes

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Engage in problem-solving exercises to reinforce your understanding of rock types and the processes that shape them.

Browse courses on Rocks

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Find practice problems in your textbook or online platforms.
Attempt to solve the problems independently, referring to your notes or the course material.
Check your answers and review the solutions to identify any areas where you need further clarification.
Repeat the process with additional practice problems to improve your proficiency.

Develop a Presentation on a Geological Topic

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Create a comprehensive presentation to deepen your understanding and share your knowledge on a specific geological topic.

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Choose a topic that interests you and that aligns with the course content.
Research your topic thoroughly, gathering information from textbooks, articles, and other reliable sources.
Organize your presentation with a clear structure, including an introduction, body, and conclusion.
Create visual aids such as slides, diagrams, or illustrations to enhance your presentation.
Practice your presentation and seek feedback from classmates or a trusted source.

Career center

Learners who complete Physical Geology will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Geologist

A Geologist explores and studies the Earth's composition, history, and structure. They investigate Earth's resources, environmental issues, and natural hazards. The Physical Geology course can help aspiring geologists build a strong foundation in the field. This course covers the materials that make up the Earth, the processes that shape it, and the history of our planet. It also provides insights into geological time, plate tectonics, weathering, and more.

See salaries and explore the career path for Geologist

Geophysicist

Geophysicists use physical principles to study the Earth. They explore the Earth's interior, atmosphere, and oceans using methods such as seismic waves, gravity measurements, and remote sensing. This Physical Geology course can help aspiring geophysicists gain a solid understanding of the Earth's structure, composition, and processes. The course covers topics such as plate tectonics, earthquakes, volcanoes, and the Earth's magnetic field.

See salaries and explore the career path for Geophysicist

Petroleum Engineer

Petroleum Engineers design and develop methods to extract oil and gas from underground reservoirs. They also manage production operations and ensure the efficient and safe recovery of these resources. The Physical Geology course can provide petroleum engineers with a comprehensive understanding of the Earth's structure, composition, and processes. This knowledge is essential for locating and extracting hydrocarbons.

See salaries and explore the career path for Petroleum Engineer

Environmental Scientist

Environmental Scientists study the environment and how human activities impact it. They develop solutions to address environmental issues such as pollution, climate change, and natural resource management. The Physical Geology course can help aspiring environmental scientists understand the Earth's systems and processes. This knowledge is crucial for developing effective environmental policies and practices.

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Paleontologist

A Paleontologist is a scientist who studies the history of life on Earth through fossils. They examine the evolution of plants and animals and reconstruct ancient environments. The Physical Geology course can provide aspiring paleontologists with a solid background in the Earth's history and the processes that have shaped life on our planet. The course covers topics such as geologic time, fossils, and sedimentary rocks.

See salaries and explore the career path for Paleontologist

Science Teacher

Science Teachers plan and deliver science lessons to students in various educational settings, such as schools and museums. They create engaging and effective learning experiences that foster students' understanding of scientific concepts. This Physical Geology course would greatly benefit aspiring science teachers, particularly those who teach Earth science. The course covers a wide range of topics in physical geology, providing a strong foundation for teaching about the Earth's systems and processes.

See salaries and explore the career path for Science Teacher

Hydrologist

Hydrologists study the movement, distribution, and quality of water on Earth. They investigate water resources, develop water management plans, and address water-related issues such as droughts and floods. The Physical Geology course can provide hydrologists with a solid foundation in the Earth's water systems. The course covers topics such as surface water, groundwater, and the water cycle.

See salaries and explore the career path for Hydrologist

Oceanographer

Oceanographers study the oceans, including their physical, chemical, and biological properties. They investigate ocean currents, waves, tides, and marine ecosystems. This Physical Geology course can help aspiring oceanographers understand the Earth's oceans and their role in the global climate system. The course covers topics such as plate tectonics, ocean floor features, and marine sediments.

See salaries and explore the career path for Oceanographer

Mining Engineer

Mining Engineers design and develop methods to extract minerals from the Earth. They also manage mining operations and ensure the safety and efficiency of mining activities. The Physical Geology course can provide aspiring mining engineers with a comprehensive understanding of the Earth's structure, composition, and processes. This knowledge is crucial for locating and extracting minerals.

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Civil Engineer

Civil Engineers design and build infrastructure projects, such as roads, bridges, and buildings. They also manage construction projects and ensure the safety and quality of infrastructure. This Physical Geology course may be useful for aspiring civil engineers, providing them with a basic understanding of the Earth's materials and processes. This knowledge can be helpful in designing and constructing infrastructure that is resilient to natural hazards and environmental factors.

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Geotechnical Engineer

Geotechnical Engineers study the engineering properties of soil and rock. They design and build foundations, slopes, and other structures that interact with the ground. This Physical Geology course may be useful for aspiring geotechnical engineers, providing them with a basic understanding of the Earth's materials and processes. This knowledge can be helpful in designing and constructing structures that are stable and safe.

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Environmental Consultant

Environmental Consultants provide advice and solutions to businesses and organizations on environmental issues. They conduct environmental assessments, develop environmental management plans, and help clients comply with environmental regulations. This Physical Geology course may be useful for aspiring environmental consultants, providing them with a basic understanding of the Earth's systems and processes. This knowledge can be helpful in assessing environmental impacts and developing strategies to mitigate them.

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Cartographer

Cartographers create maps and other graphic representations of geographic information. They use specialized software and techniques to produce maps for various purposes, such as navigation, planning, and education. This Physical Geology course may be useful for aspiring cartographers, providing them with a basic understanding of the Earth's physical features and how they are represented on maps. This knowledge can be helpful in creating accurate and informative maps.

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Archaeologist

Archaeologists study past human societies through the excavation and analysis of artifacts and遺跡. They reconstruct historical events, cultures, and environments. This Physical Geology course may be useful for aspiring archaeologists, providing them with a basic understanding of the Earth's processes and how they have shaped human history. This knowledge can be helpful in interpreting archaeological findings and understanding the environmental context of past societies.

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Museum curator

Museum Curators are responsible for managing and preserving museum collections. They research, catalog, and display artifacts and specimens for educational and scientific purposes. This Physical Geology course may be useful for aspiring museum curators, particularly those who work in natural history museums. The course provides a basic understanding of the Earth's history, processes, and materials. This knowledge can be helpful in understanding and interpreting museum collections.

See salaries and explore the career path for Museum curator