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Geology studies and opportunities- 30-Apr-2010
The term Geology originates from the Greek language.
Geology involves in the research activities of the earths structure, physical and chemical components, history and its origination. It is the science of earths composition, its solid and liquid content. With the help of this science the study helps to identify natural mineral resources like coal, iron, copper and uranium. Principles of Geology makes it possible to study the planets of the solar system, which otherwise termed as Astrology.
History: The ancient book Perilithon written by Theophratus, was considered to be the authentic book about rocks. He was an ardent student of Aristotle. In 1788, James Hutton came out with an article entitled Theory of the Earth. James Hutton is often viewed as the first modern geologist.
William Smith (17691839) drew some of the first geological maps and began the process of ordering rock strata (layers) by examining the fossils contained in them.
In the 19th century, the department geology went through some drastic changes. The century witnessed several researches on determining the exact age of the earth. Further, several serious studies were also carried out in the 20th century. The most significant advances in 20th century geology have been the development of the theory of plate tectonics in the 1960s, and the refinement of estimates of the planet's age.
Principles of Geology:
Field methods:
Geological fieldwork varies depending on the task at hand. Typical fieldwork could consist of:
Geological mapping
Surveying of topographic features
Sub-surface mapping through geophysical methods.
High-resolution stratigraphy
Biogeochemistry and geomicrobiology.
Paleontology: excavation of fossil material
Collection of samples for geochronology and thermochronology.
Glaciology: measurement of characteristics of glaciers and their motion.
Laboratory methods:
Petrology
Planetary geology
Applied geology
Mining geology
Petroleum geology
Engineering geology
Hdrology
Both UG and PG studies are available in this field:
BSc., Geology
MSc., Geology
MSc., Applied Geology.
M.Tech., Geology
M.Phil Geology
Education institutions:
Delhi University, Delhi
Madras University, Chennai
Anna University, Chennai
Chidambaram College, Tuticorin
Presidency College, Chennai.
Annamallai University, Chidambaram
Sri Meenakshi Government College for Girls,
Periyar University, Salem.
Opportunities:
Geologists are likely to get anything between Rs 15,000 to Rs 25,000 as salary. Those completed this course can get job opportunities in Central Government ground water research, geological survey of India through UPSC. Further, they also can get jobs at Coal Mining, Hindustan Zinc, ONGC., Mineral Exploration Authority and in Colleges and educational institutions.
