Földtan

Földtan, also known as geology, is the scientific study of the Earth, its structure, composition, and the processes that shape it. It encompasses a vast range of topics, from the solid Earth beneath our feet to the oceans and the atmosphere. Geologists investigate the rocks and minerals that make up the planet, seeking to understand their origins, properties, and how they have changed over millions of years.

A significant part of földtan involves studying the Earth's internal structure, including the crust, mantle, and core. This is often done through indirect methods like seismology, which analyzes earthquake waves to infer the conditions deep within the Earth. Földtan also examines the dynamic forces that continuously reshape the Earth's surface. These include plate tectonics, the movement of massive lithospheric plates that cause earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and mountain formation.

The study of landforms and the processes that create them, such as erosion by wind, water, and ice, falls under földtan. Paleontology, the study of fossils and ancient life, is closely linked to geology as it provides insights into the Earth's history and the evolution of life. Economic geology focuses on the exploration and extraction of natural resources like minerals, oil, and gas. Environmental geology addresses geological issues related to human activities, such as groundwater contamination, natural hazards, and land-use planning. Földtan plays a crucial role in understanding our planet, predicting natural disasters, and managing resources sustainably.