Earth Science

Earth science, also known as geoscience, is a general field of study concerned with all aspects of the planet, including the atmosphere, oceans, the biosphere, and all materials that make up the planet. Some call Earth science a category of the larger field of planetary science, which deals with all of the known planets. One of the challenges facing Earth scientists today is predicting the behavior of the Earth, especially in the case of natural disasters, such as volcanic eruptions, earthquakes, tsunamis and hurricanes. Other challenges include finding and managing natural resources, soil ecology, maintaining the fresh water supply and understanding climate patterns. For those who feel they would enjoy such work but are unsure if they are suited, an aptitude test or career assessment can help determine compatibility.

Geoscientists can be considered the caretakers of Earth. Not only do they learn about how the Earth works, but they learn how human beings can live in harmony with the Earth and the resources it provides. Earth scientists help to find new resources, and they discover ways to more efficiently use present resources. They can also determine the environmental impact of obtaining and using any resources. The government and many types of corporations receive invaluable information from Earth scientists.

Several specific disciplines exist within the category of Earth sciences. Each discipline specializes in one aspect of the Earth. The National Science Foundation lists the specific disciplines of Earth science as follows:

• Atmospheric scientists – Atmospheric scientists study weather phenomena and weather patterns. They study the climates of the world and the human effect on the atmosphere, such as the production of greenhouse gases.
• Economic geologists – Economic geologists explore the Earth in order to locate natural resources and help to setup mines meeting environmental standards.
• Engineering geologists – Engineering geologists study the composition of the Earth according to mathematic principles. They help to build large structures such as bridges, buildings, and dams.
• Geochemists – Geochemists study the chemical composition and interaction of matter.
• Geologists – Geologists study all physical properties of the Earth and their history.
• Geophysicists – Geophysicists study such phenomena as the magnetic and gravitational fields of the Earth.
• Meteorologists – Meteorologists study the atmosphere and weather.
• Oceanographers – Oceanographers study the oceans.
• Paleontologists – Paleontologists study fossils left behind by past organisms.
• Seismologists – Seismologists study earthquakes and plate tectonics.
• Soil Scientists – Soil scientists study the properties of the soil to help in agriculture.