What are the 4 major sciences of Earth science?
The Four Major Sciences of Earth Science
Earth science is an umbrella term that encompasses several branches that study different aspects of the Earth and its processes. The four major sciences of Earth science are:
- Geology: The study of the solid Earth, including its rocks, minerals, structure, processes, and history. Geology explores phenomena such as earthquakes, volcanoes, plate tectonics, and the formation of Earth's features.
- Oceanography: The study of Earth's oceans, including their composition, movement, organisms, and processes. Oceanography investigates marine ecosystems, ocean currents, waves, and the interactions between the oceans and the atmosphere.
- Meteorology: The study of the atmosphere and the processes that produce weather and climate. Meteorology involves understanding atmospheric phenomena such as clouds, storms, precipitation, wind patterns, and climate change.
- Astronomy: The study of the universe beyond Earth, but within Earth science, it focuses on how celestial bodies (such as the Sun, Moon, and other planets) influence Earth. This includes understanding tides, seasons, eclipses, and the origin of Earth in the context of the solar system.
Together, these disciplines provide a comprehensive understanding of the planet, its history, and the forces that shape it.