Geologic Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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geologic

[dส’iหˆษ‘หlษ™dส’ษชk ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

earth sciences

Geologic pertains to the scientific study of the Earth's physical structures and substance, its history, and the processes that act on it. This term covers various aspects of geology, including plate tectonics, rock composition, and sedimentation. Geologic studies help understand natural resources, natural hazards, and Earth's environmental changes over time.

Synonyms

earthly, geological, terrestrial.

Examples of usage

  • The geologic features of the region indicate significant tectonic activity.
  • Geologic surveys are essential for finding mineral deposits.
  • Understanding the geologic timeline is crucial for studying climate change.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Science

  • Geologic processes include erosion, sedimentation, and volcanic activity, all of which shape the Earthโ€™s landscape.
  • The Earth's layersโ€”crust, mantle, and coreโ€”have distinct properties and contribute to various geological phenomena.
  • Plate tectonics is a key concept in geology, explaining how large pieces of Earth's crust move and interact.

Environmental Impact

  • Geological studies help us understand natural disasters like earthquakes, which result from movements in the Earth's crust.
  • Mining and drilling can significantly alter local geologic structures, affecting ecosystems and human communities.
  • Soil and rock types can influence agricultural practices and natural vegetation in different regions.

Cultural Significance

  • Many ancient civilizations built their cities near geologically stable areas, considering the Earthโ€™s characteristics.
  • Geological features often serve as cultural symbols in folklore, representing strength and permanence in various traditions.
  • Indigenous cultures have deep connections to the land, often viewing geological formations as sacred.

Literature

  • Geological themes appear in literature, symbolizing change, timelessness, and the passage of time, like in poems about mountains.
  • Authors often use the landscape's geologic features to set the mood or theme in their stories, highlighting the Earth's grandeur.
  • Historical novels frequently reference Earth's changes to evoke a sense of place or stability amidst societal shifts.

Origin of 'geologic'

Main points about word origin

  • 'Geologic' comes from the Greek word 'geล', meaning Earth, and 'logia', which means study.
  • The term has been in use since the 19th century, reflecting a growing interest in the Earth sciences.
  • In ancient times, people had different methods for understanding land features without the modern concept of geology.

The word 'geologic' originates from the French term 'gรฉologique', which itself derives from the Greek words 'geo' meaning 'earth' and 'logia' meaning 'study'. The use of the term has evolved over time, particularly during the 18th and 19th centuries, as geological sciences gained prominence through the work of key figures like James Hutton and Charles Lyell. They pioneered the notion of deep time and the continuous processes that shape the Earth, reinforcing the relevance of geologic studies. The word has since become a fundamental part of the scientific lexicon, applicable in various contexts such as environmental science, engineering, and natural resource management.