Introduction to Physical Geology: Understanding Earth's Dynamics
Learn the foundational concepts of geological processes, from mineral formation to volcanic activity, and understand how modern remote sensing shapes our view of the Earth.
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About this course
Course contents
6 modules · 30 lessons · 3h
1
Foundations & The Deep Earth
Understand the basic definitions of geology and the internal structure of our planet.
- What is Physical Geology?
Define geology and its importance in understanding Earth's history and future.6 min - The Geologic Time Scale
Understand how geologists organize Earth's 4.6 billion-year history.6 min - Earth's Chemical Layers
Distinguish between the crust, mantle, and core based on chemical composition.6 min - Earth's Physical Layers
Explore the lithosphere, asthenosphere, and mesosphere based on physical behavior.6 min - The Engine of the Earth
Learn how internal heat and convection drive geological processes.6 min
2
Mineralogy: The Building Blocks
Identify minerals and understand how they form from chemical elements.
- Defining a Mineral
Learn the five criteria that define a substance as a mineral.6 min - Optical Properties
Identify minerals using color, streak, and luster.6 min - Strength Properties
Test minerals for hardness, cleavage, and fracture.6 min - Crystallization from Magma
Understand how minerals form as molten rock cools.6 min - Crystallization from Water
Explore how minerals precipitate from aqueous solutions.6 min
3
Plate Tectonics & Volcanism
Analyze the movements of the Earth's crust and the resulting volcanic activity.
- The Theory of Plate Tectonics
Explain how the lithosphere is divided into moving plates.6 min - Divergent Boundaries
Examine how plates move apart to create new crust at mid-ocean ridges.6 min - Convergent Boundaries
Understand subduction zones and mountain building where plates collide.6 min - Magma Dynamics
Learn why magma rises and how its viscosity affects eruptions.6 min - Types of Volcanoes
Compare shield volcanoes, cinder cones, and composite volcanoes.6 min - Volcanic Hazards
Identify the dangers of lava flows, pyroclastic flows, and lahars.6 min
4
Surface Processes & Landscapes
Examine how weathering and erosion reshape the Earth's surface over time.
- Mechanical Weathering
Understand physical processes like frost wedging that break rocks apart.6 min - Chemical Weathering
Explore how water and gases alter the mineral composition of rocks.6 min - Water as an Agent of Erosion
Analyze how rivers and streams transport sediment and carve valleys.6 min - Wind and Ice Erosion
Examine the roles of glaciers and wind in shaping unique landscapes.6 min - Landscape Evolution
Synthesize how tectonic uplift and erosion compete to shape topography.6 min
5
Modern Tools & Environment
Apply geospatial technology to geological study and environmental issues.
- Introduction to GIS
Define Geographic Information Systems and their role in mapping geology.6 min - Mapping Geological Features
Learn how to represent 3D structures on 2D maps using geospatial tools.6 min - Remote Sensing Basics
Understand how satellites collect data about Earth's surface without physical contact.6 min - Interpreting Satellite Imagery
Identify geological formations and land-use changes from space.6 min - Geology and Climate Change
Analyze how geological records help us understand modern environmental challenges.6 min
6
Synthesis & Practical Application
Integrate all concepts to interpret real-world geological scenarios.
- Reading a Rock Outcrop
Apply mineralogy and weathering knowledge to interpret a rock face.6 min - Predicting Geological Hazards
Use tectonic and volcanic knowledge to assess regional risks.6 min - Human Impact on Landscapes
Evaluate how human activity accelerates erosion and alters landscapes.6 min - The Future of Earth Science
Summarize the course and explore careers in modern geology.6 min
The Dynamic Region Analysis
You will choose a specific geographic region (e.g., The Andes, The Mid-Atlantic Ridge, or a local national park) and create a comprehensive geological profile.
What you'll get
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Certificate of completion
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Short & focused
3h of practical content
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Yes. On completion you'll receive a certificate you can add to your LinkedIn profile.
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