Geology

• What is Geology?

Humans in the past have always sought to extract metals from the earth. Evidence such as metal smelting furnaces proves that mining and extracting precious metals like gold and copper from the earth has held special significance for humanity. Humans have always obtained their needs from the earth, which serves as a source of minerals and agriculture. To meet these needs, a comprehensive understanding of the earth is essential, and geology along with its related sciences provides solutions to this matter. Additionally, a thorough knowledge of our planet aids us in studying other planets and celestial bodies more effectively. In this section, we introduce the science of geology.

Geology discusses the origin of the earth, its formations, structure, and constituent materials, mountains, plains, oceans, as well as the history of life forms and sequences of physical events on Earth, and finally the transformations that have occurred on Earth. Understanding various geological phenomena is the main goal of this science. However, in our country, due to the abundance of natural resources and valuable reserves deep within the earth, geological knowledge holds special scientific and economic value and plays an effective role in identifying mineral resources, exploration and exploitation thereof, particularly oil resources. Geology has expanded significantly worldwide over the past half-century and particularly in Iran over the last 25 years.

Many previous theories have been transformed as geologists have gained new insights into their valuable planet that laid the foundation for modern earth sciences. Like all branches of experimental sciences, geology relies on observation and change; thus, as our ability for direct and indirect observation increases through geophysical methods, geochemistry, satellites, and electronics, our understanding of both our world and Earth's past deepens.

Geology is a science that generally discusses Earth. This definition should be expanded because other sciences such as biology and astronomy also discuss Earth. The purpose of geology is to identify and study theories regarding Earth's origin and its constituent materials while examining factors that influence its state. Ultimately it involves studying valuable materials within Earth and how to utilize them effectively. Geology is an ancient science with a long history; humans have always been curious about Earth.

Events such as earthquakes, storms, floods, tornadoes etc., have always caused concern among humans regarding Earth. The field known today as geology—separate with diverse branches—has only existed for more than two or three centuries; like other scientific fields it has been developed through continuous research by numerous scientists.

Geology impacts astronomical studies because it encompasses knowledge about planet Earth concerning material origins and existing forms on it while examining its past along with processes occurring or having occurred that affect its forms. To derive conclusions from these geological discussions one must consider various pressures affecting Earth along with chemical compositions constituting this planet while discussing how terrestrial organisms influence it from different perspectives.

Initial information about Earth itself—such as its origin age status in space—is obtained through studying other celestial bodies; sometimes by examining current conditions of similar celestial bodies insights into past events on Earth can be gleaned. Geological specialists can take responsibility for planning studies executing monitoring various mining energy projects related to exploration extraction civil engineering projects including dam construction water supply road building etc.

 

• How Did Geology Emerge?

Evidence suggests that around 4500 BC, humans successfully extracted copper, and by 2800 BC, the alloy of bronze was recognized by Iranians. Between 1600 and 1300 BC, the use of iron became common. The oldest geological map, dating back to 2000 BC, pertains to emerald and gold mines in Egypt. The exact beginning of scientific geological studies is unclear; perhaps Aristotle (348-322 BC) first wrote about this science in his book "On the Heavens," mentioning changes to the Earth and river effects. After World War II (1939-1945), advancements in science and technology highlighted the importance of geology due to the need for raw materials. Geologists were prompted to conduct new studies on underground structures for metal and especially oil exploration. In the early 20th century, following Wegener's proposals, geologists turned their attention to continental drift theory. Recently, with increased focus on ocean floor spreading and plate tectonics by scientists like Hess and Morgan, geology has entered a new phase.

• What Role Does Geology Play in Life?

All studies aimed at understanding the Earth ultimately serve humanity. These sciences examine how to extract and utilize Earth's materials sustainably while also informing about hazards from dynamic forces that could threaten human existence. Since humans have utilized Earth's materials since the dawn of history, it can be said that geology is one of the oldest sciences humans have unconsciously engaged with. Over centuries, this science has been documented and classified into various branches with defined laws.

Early humans were always curious about the Earth due to two main reasons: first, their survival depended on it as they sourced food from it; second, natural disasters like earthquakes, volcanoes, storms, and floods caused significant damage and loss of life, prompting a desire to understand these phenomena to prevent or predict them.

• The Connection Between Geology and Other Sciences:

Biological sciences and chemistry are closely related fields. Tools used in geology such as satellite maps, geographic information systems (GIS), and surveying techniques link it with other sciences. Soil science, hydrology, meteorology, petrology, and geography are all closely interconnected with geology.

Given many countries' economic dependence on mineral resources like oil, gas, gold, other metals, and non-metallic minerals—and geology's role in identifying these resources—geology holds a significant place today. Our country also requires researchers and specialists in this field due to its vast area rich in geological phenomena and mineral resources located in an active geological region; studying these can uncover regional secrets while providing opportunities for resource utilization.