geology and geomorphology Flashcards
The natural science that studies Earth — its composition; the processes that shaped its surface, and its history
Geology
Rocks produced by crystallization from a liquid
Igneous Rocks
When igneous rocks are exposed to the surface and weathering reduces them to particles, these particles are moved by erosional process and deposited in layers into rivers and oceans.
Sedimentary Rocks
When sedimentary rocks are pushed to deeper levels of the earth, the transform into metamorphosed rocks due to changes in pressure and temperature
Metamorphosed Rocks
Branch of geology that deals with the origin, nature and distribution of landforms
Geomorphology
Refers to the description of landforms
Physiography
These refer to the irregularities on the earth’s surface. they are derived from volcanic, glacial, or erosional processess
Landforms
Two (2) properties used to describe soil in site design
- Composition
- Texture
Refers to the material that makes up soil: mineral particles, organic matter, water, and air
Composition
These comprise 50% to 80% of the volume of the soil and form the all-important skeletal structure of the soil
Mineral Particles
A soil’s resistance to penetration from a weighted object such as a building foundation
Bearing Capacity
The term used to describe the composite sizes of particles in a soil sample
Texture
This refers to soil’s ability to transfer gravity water downward through (1) infiltration, (2) permeability, and (3) percolation
Good Drainage
This means that gravity water is not readily transmitted by the soil and that the soil is frequently or permanently saturated and may have water standing on it.
Poor Drainage
This means that gravity water is not readily transmitted by the soil and that the soil is frequently or permanently saturated and may have water standing on it.
Poor Drainage