Geologists study how the earth changes over time.
The subject of geology most likely evokes images of rocks, but geologists do more than just study rocks. Related school projects effectively examine the effects of soil composition and erosion, or entertain students with simulations of natural disasters. The latter provides an accurate analysis of the effects on landscapes and people. Geology students observe the natural world overall to learn about relationships in nature.
Rocks
Rock collecting is an easy way to learn about the different types and characteristics of rocks. Using a rock guide from a local library, bookstore or natural history museum, sort rocks into igneous, metamorphic or sedimentary groups. The guide should contain the Mohs scale of mineral hardness, which indicates administer a scratch test and determine hardness. Continue classifying each group by color, shape, transparency, luster, fracture and crystal patterns to identify each rock sample. Organize rocks in a display, and label each one according to its type and identified characteristics.
Soil Composition
Soil composition affects the living conditions for the plants and organisms that live there. It contributes to erosion, proper drainage and compaction. To determine the viability of life in garden soil or a nearby habitat, take samples and determine whether they are composed of sand, silt or clay. Classify each by color to assess the moisture content. Test for pH with a soil test kit, available from a local home and garden retailer. Highly compacted soil does not leave the resident creatures enough air, space and nutrients for survival. Mark the height of a thread spool on a knitting needle. Set the spool on the ground and insert the knitting needle through the center until it stops. Mark the needle at the top of the spool. Remove the needle and measure the depth of plowably suitable soil that gives native creatures enough breathing room and supports healthy plant life.
Hydrogeology
Erosion eats away at rock and soil, polluting water downstream and destroying farmland. It depletes the soil of nutrients necessary for crops. Geologists place jagged rock pieces, called "rip rap," on land and around waterways prone to erosion to ease the impact of water force and reduce wear. Experimenting with different types of rock covers will show which is most useful for preserving the agricultural value of farmland. Lay out a 6-foot section of rain gutter on a downward slope, ending in a large container at the lower end. Fill the bottom with sand and dirt. Run a hose into the gutter and turn it on for one minute. Observe the evidence of erosion by the amount of debris that ends up in the water in the bucket. Repeat the experiment three times, covering the sand and dirt with coarse gravel, fine gravel and then a combination of the two. Compare the erosion for each to determine which most effectively slows damages. Based on the results, write a recommendation regarding the best way to prevent erosion in streams and rivers.
Volcanoes
The drama and action of natural disasters intrigue even students who do not have a strong interest in science. A salt dough or clay volcano with a baking soda and vinegar eruption is a classic standby in classrooms and science fairs. But students can use an air pressure model with sand to observe what influences the shape of the eruption, debris dispersal and shape of the cinder cone. Clamp a funnel and plastic tubing to a vertical support post, such as rebar or PVC pipe, set securely in a base. Attach one end of the tubing to the funnel's nozzle and the other to a source of air pressure, like an air jet or can of compressed air. Pour sand into the funnel and start the air flow. Take pictures of the eruption and analyze shape, direction and height. Turn on a fan during an eruption to observe the effect of wind speed and direction. Try different types of sand with different size particles. Examine the cinder cone that forms nearby from the fallout debris. Note the cone's distance from the eruption and whether the sand fell uniformly or collected more densely on one side. Compare the difference of results depending on wind speed and particle type.
Earthquakes
Simulate an earthquake by building a shelf over a three-sided wooden box. Attach a metal flange to a small electric DC craft motor (available at hobby shops) and switch. Fasten the motor securely to the box's floor and bolt the flange to the underside of the shelf. Place model buildings, people and landscape on top and flip on the switch to start the shaking. Observe what happens to things on the surface when tremors and quakes hit.
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