Section 1 Flashcards
Who is known as the ‘Father of Modern Geology’?
James Hutton
Proposed the principle of uniformitarianism.
What principle states that geological processes operating today are the same as those in the past?
Uniformitarianism
‘The present is the key to the past.’
Which scientist expanded on Hutton’s ideas and introduced gradualism?
Charles Lyell
His work is documented in ‘Principles of Geology.’
What is the principle of faunal succession?
Using fossils to correlate and date rock layers
Developed by William Smith.
Who proposed the theory of continental drift?
Alfred Wegener
Suggested that continents were once connected in a supercontinent (Pangaea).
What concept did Harry Hess contribute to geology?
Seafloor spreading
This concept is part of the theory of plate tectonics.
Who created detailed maps of the ocean floor supporting plate tectonics?
Marie Tharp
What foundational principle of stratigraphy did Nicholas Steno develop?
Law of superposition
It states that in an undisturbed sequence, the oldest layers are at the bottom.
What does the law of superposition state?
Oldest layers are at the bottom, youngest are at the top
Applies to undisturbed sequences of sedimentary rocks.
What does the principle of original horizontality indicate?
Sedimentary rock layers are originally deposited horizontally
Tilting or folding indicates later geological events.
What is the principle of cross-cutting relationships?
Geologic features that cut through rocks are younger than the rocks they cut
This principle helps determine the relative ages of rock layers.
What theory suggests that Earth’s landscape was shaped by short-lived, violent events?
Catastrophism
Often contrasted with uniformitarianism.
What is the Plate Tectonics Theory?
Explains the movement of Earth’s lithospheric plates
Drives earthquakes, volcanic activity, and mountain building.
What major historical event accelerated interest in geology for practical purposes?
Industrial Revolution
What technological advancement allowed the study of earthquakes and Earth’s interior?
Seismographs
What method introduced the determination of the absolute age of rocks?
Radiometric Dating
What technology led to discoveries like mid-ocean ridges?
Submarine Technology
What revolutionized geological mapping and monitoring of Earth’s surface processes?
Satellite Imagery
What was the role of scientific organizations in geology?
Fostered collaboration and formalized the study of Earth sciences
Example: Geological Society of London.
