Main Difference – Geology vs Earth Science
Geology and earth science both refer to the study of the Earth. Geology and Earth science fields focus on the scientific study of the earth and the forces acting upon it. Thus, these two terms are used interchangeably by professional scientists, businesses, and educators. However, there is a slight difference between geology and earth science. Earth science is a much wider field than geology; it also encompasses areas such as meteorology, oceanography, paleoclimatology, and hydrology, unlike geology. This is the main difference between geology and earth science.
This article covers,
1. What is Geology? – Definition, Scope and Areas of Study
2. What is Earth Science? – Definition, Scope and Areas of Study
3. What is the difference between Geology and Earth Science?
What is Geology
Geology is the scientific study of the origin, history, and structure of the earth. The physical structure and substance of the earth, the processes which act on them and their history are some of the areas main concerns of geologists. Geology mainly focuses on the physical properties of the earth and helps us to understand the history of the earth by analyzing the evolutionary history of life, past climates, and plate tectonics. The knowledge of geology is important in mineral and hydrocarbon exploration, understanding of natural hazards, evaluation of water sources, and remediation of environmental problems.
The term geology is the older word and has a much longer history than earth science. Geology can also refer to the study of the solid structures in a celestial body (e.g., geology of moon).
1) inner core; (2) outer core; (3) lower mantle; (4) upper mantle; (5) lithosphere; (6) crust (part of the lithosphere)
What is Earth Science
Earth science, also known as geosciences, is a broad term that refers to the fields of science dealing with planet Earth. It studies all of the earth’s dynamic processes.
The term earth science is newer than the term geology, and it became popular with the more interdisciplinary tasks that build upon the work of the geologists. Thus, a degree in Earth science entails wider subjects than a traditional geology degree. Earth science also consists of areas such as meteorology, oceanography, paleoclimatology, and hydrology that are not considered to be a part of geology.
Difference Between Geology and Earth Science
Definition
Geology: Geology is the scientific study of the origin, history, and structure of the earth.
Earth Science: Earth science is a broad field that refers to the fields of science dealing with planet Earth.
Usage
Geology: The term geology is older than earth science.
Earth Science: The term earth science was introduced later.
Areas
Geology: Geology does not involve meteorology, oceanography, paleoclimatology, or hydrology.
Earth science: Earth science involves areas such as meteorology, oceanography, paleoclimatology, and hydrology.
Image Courtesy:
“The Earth seen from Apollo 17” By NASA/Apollo 17 crew; taken by either Harrison Schmitt or Ron Evans – (Public Domain) via Commons Wikimedia
“Jordens inre-numbers” By Original Mats Halldin Vectorization: Chabacano (CC BY-SA 3.0) via Commons Wikimedia
