The Practical Geologist: The Introductory Guide to the Basics of Geology and to Collecting and Identifying Rocks

By Dougal Dixon

Book Overview

From exploring the basic principles of geology to starting a rock and mineral collection, The Practical Geologist is the perfect introduction to the world of earth science. Beginning with a history of the earth's formation and development, this book explores the substances that compose the planet, movements within the earth, the surface effects of weather and water, and underground landscapes. It shows you how to search for, identify, and extract samples of various rocks and minerals, and for each rock and mineral type there is a brief mineralogy and explanation of its locations. There are also sections on mapping, preparing, and curating specimens, and geological sites on the six continents. Packed with more than 200 full-color illustrations, this comprehensive guide is the essential practical companion for natural science enthusiasts everywhere.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0671746979
• ISBN13: 9780671746971
• Release Date: August 1992
• Publisher: Touchstone Books
• Length: 160 Pages
• Weight: 1.17 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.5" x 7.5" x 9.7"

Customer Reviews

Middle School Geologist

My daughter who is a 7th Grade Science Teacher loved this book.

perfect for the hobbyist

After a long search, I've finally found a basic geology that is not for children, but is wonderful for an adult hobbyist. Gorgeous pictures, nice explanatory drawings, index and glossary are very helpful

Couldn't Put The Book Down!Great Book!

Dougal Dixon has written a wonderful book with detailed discriptions suited for both the beginner and those already into Geology.This book is a perfect learning tool for all ages. Perfect for education as well as recreational activilties. I highly recommmend this intellegent,entertaining and well written book.

Excellent Book for the Beginning Geologist

This is a wonderful book for the beginning geologist or anyone interested in earth sciences. It presents the fundamental concepts of geology in a way that is accessible to the non-specialist, but without being oversimplified or condescending. It's full of lots of great pictures, and the best part of the book is the section where it tells you how to collect and label specimens of rock yourself. People of any age interested in science, especially go out and get grubby do it yourself science, will find this book an excellent addition to their libraries.

Nice book for the beginner

I have the habit of buying anything with geology, paleontology, history, etc. in the title, sometimes without thought to where I'm at with my knowledge base. This was one of those times! The book is a lovely, well illustrated, practical guide to geology for the beginner. Much of what the authors dedicate a single paragraph or page to I have had whole courses in already, so needless to say, I was not quite as enthused over the material as a new comer to the field might be. Certainly for the beginner, especially the Junior High natural science enthusiast, this would be a wonderful gift. It might even make a good text for a high school natual science course, as it covers considerable information on the earth sciences. I plan on giving my copy to a close friend with children interested in these subjects.

essential

I use it to introduce students to basic physical geology. It is written at a basic level but the concepts are not oversimplified. The diagrams and text provide just the right amount of information- non- major students are informed but not overwhelmed. The Practical Geologist is a perfect supplement to the historical geology texts, and can serve as an informal and affordably priced lab manual.