Introduction
The field of geology has been in existence over several centuries. In spite of the recent developments, the precept of this science remains the same.
Thus, this analytical treatise attempts to explicitly review the elements of geology in terms of career, qualities of a good geologist, geological solution to using spring water, and the significance of geological knowledge to the current society. In the summary section, the treatise reflects on Andrews’ points and relates the same to personal traits as a geologist.
The study of geology
The study of geology is very complex. It involves studying different materials that make up the Earth and the patterns of these materials in terms of reactions creating them. In addition, geology includes the review of living organisms of planet Earth (Andrews par. 2).
In summary, the study of geology encompasses processes, life forms and structures of the materials that form the planet Earth. The major sub-disciplines of geology include economic geology, which involves the study of mining and petroleum, geochemistry, which involves the study of the structures of different Earth materials, and sedimentology, which involves the study of the Earth’s sediments among others (Norton 23).
Qualities of a geologist
Good health and physical fitness forms the epitome of a career in geology. Moreover, a geologist should possess excellent observation skills which are instrumental in collecting primary data (Andrews par. 4).
Since the job description of a geologist involves proper identification and labeling of different specimens, a geologist should possess good leadership and organization skills to ensure that any task is completed within a specific period (Marshak 19).
In addition, the geologist should be flexible to perform duties in different geographical environments and must be ready to travel whenever called upon. Besides, good logical reasoning and judgment are intrinsic qualities that will determine the success of a career in the field of geology (Norton 29).
In summary, having deep interest in the field of geology will distinguish an excellent geologist from others. The most notable careers in the field of geology include the marine geologist, bedrock geologist, and quaternary geologist among others.
Viability of spring water for human consumption
As the world population expands rapidly, the need for more clean water has become an urgent concern. In fact, mankind cannot get enough clean water for consumption since the effects of global warming have significantly reduced quantity of available clean water.
There is need to identify and explore new sources of clean water. The most viable sources include the hot and cold springs which flow from bedrocks and springs. Geology may offer a solution into the viability of spring water for human consumption (Norton 31).
In order to check the viability of spring water, a geologist will have to analyze the electrical conductivity of spring water in order to determine the number of years, the source and chemical components of such water. Through series of tests and experiments, geology may offer mankind a new source of viable water for consumption and farming.
Since geology involves the study of the components and materials that from the Earth, geologists involved in the test of the spring water will establish the harmful and non harmful chemicals and nutrients in the water and devise proper methods of purifying such water. In the end, mankind will be rewarded with an extra source of clean water for consumption to ensure sustainability of the Earth’s resources (Norton 33).
The significance of the geoscientists’ knowledge
The field of geology is very wide and offers rich knowledge to mankind in their bid to ensure sustainability in spite of the impacts of global warming. The geoscientists’ knowledge is vital towards sustainable agriculture, mining, water extraction, marine life conservation, and creation of alternative sources of energy among others.
In fact, geology as a science encompasses all the processes and structures that form the planet Earth (Andrews par. 6). Mankind directly or indirectly depends on these processes and materials for their own survival.
With the geological knowledge, mankind stands a better chance of surviving any environmental catastrophe. For instance, geotechnical, marine, bedrock, and quaternary knowledge offers mankind the best chance of surviving on planet Earth (Marshak 16).
Personal reflection
After having read the article by Sarah Andrews Why study geology, I have recognized good observation and logical judgment as the traits that might suit my career as a geologist. I can directly relate to the story of Andrews in her earlier years as a naïve geologist and how she later developed interest through practical projects and assignments (Andrews par. 8).
Besides, the element of open mindedness is likely to ensure personal smooth transition into different sub-disciplines of geology.
The geological fields that seem most important to me as a global citizen include economic geology, which involves the study of mining and petroleum, and geochemistry, which involves the study of the structures of different Earth materials, since these careers do not limit a person to a single geographical area of work.
Works Cited
Andrews, Sarah. Why study geology?. 2000. Web.
Marshak, Stephen. Essentials of geology, New York, NY: W. W. Norton, Incorporated, 2010. Print.
Norton, William. The elements of geology, Alabama, Al: Plain Label Books, 2009. Print.