geoscience

Geoscience is the scientific study of the Earth, including its materials, processes, history, and structure. It covers the solid Earth, its oceans, atmosphere, and biosphere, and the interactions among these components. Geoscience seeks to understand how Earth's systems have evolved over time and how they operate today at scales from minerals to climate.

Geoscience comprises subdisciplines such as geology (rocks and the Earth’s crust), geophysics (physical properties and processes), geochemistry (chemical cycles), geomorphology and stratigraphy (landforms and layering), hydrology and hydrogeology (water systems), meteorology and climatology (atmosphere and climate), oceanography, paleontology, seismology, volcanology, and cryosphere science. Applications include engineering geology, environmental geoscience, and resource exploration.

Geoscience relies on field observations, laboratory experiments, and a range of analytical techniques. Data are gathered through rock sampling, mapping, drilling, remote sensing, seismic surveys, magnetometry, and isotopic dating. Tools such as geographic information systems (GIS) and computer models help interpret processes and predict future behavior.

Geoscience informs resource management, hazard assessment and mitigation, environmental protection, and climate research. It supports decision making in mining, construction, water resources, agriculture, and disaster preparedness, and provides foundational knowledge for addressing global challenges such as climate change and sustainable development.

The discipline has a long history, rooted in the study of rocks and Earth structure, and has expanded through advances in physics, chemistry, biology, and technology. It involves collaboration across universities, research institutes, and international organizations.