Geoscience

/ˈdʒiːoʊˌsaɪəns/ noun

Definition

The study of Earth's physical features, rocks, minerals, and the processes that shape our planet over time.

Etymology

From Greek 'geo' (earth) combined with 'science' (from Latin 'scientia', knowledge). The term emerged in the mid-20th century as sciences studying Earth's structure and history became unified under one disciplinary umbrella.

Kelly Says

Geoscience is actually a relatively young term that reflects how scientists realized that understanding earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and climate requires integrating geology, physics, chemistry, and biology—it's like the Earth demanded we stop studying it in silos.

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