Learn Geology: Notes, curiosities and detailed explanations

As mentioned in some articles, the age of the Earth is thought to be between 4.400 and 5.100 billion years. This theory is determined through the use of radiometric dating techniques thanks to the information and material that can be extracted from meteorites. The evidence for this is consistent, so it can be said that this is the origin of the Earth. In order to explain all the events that have occurred on our planet, actualism is used. It is the law that is based on the conviction that the events that have occurred throughout history are the same as those that occur in the present. In this article we are going to point out what actualism is, what its characteristics are and how important it is. What is actualism? It is a principle issued by James Hutton and further developed by Charles Lyell (link) in which it is established that the processes that have occurred throughout the history of the Earth are similar to those that take place in the present. Hence this theory is called actualism. This actualism is also considered catastrophizing. It is that today's geological characters are suddenly formed in the past thanks to transformations and evolutions. Some of the most important tools by which actualism and uniformism serve to extract information from our past is the superposition of strata, the faunal succession and the succession of events both in the past and in the evolution of the present. This law was confirmed in the XNUMXth century and at the beginning of the XNUMXth century. It was naturalists who were able to verify the facts by examining the Earth's surface. These naturalists affirmed and supported themselves on these facts in order to understand the genesis of the planet and all its evolution. Logically it makes sense. Why are the processes going to change over time? The patterns of atmospheric changes, soil, geological agents (link), etc. They are the same ones who acted at the beginning of everything. You have to notice that before the atmosphere did not have the same composition. But it is that, to this day, its composition is also being altered. Perhaps it is the geological time scale (link) that makes us think that before there were other geological events than there are now. Wind, sea currents, rainfall, storms, etc. They also occurred when the Earth originated. For this reason, what currentism defends is that it is these same events that have been transforming the planet and causing it to evolve, but to this day, they are still having an effect and acting. Genesis The genesis of landforms and sediments were explained in this way by the actions of the water, the wind, and the waves that they monitored and of which they could measure the effects every day. Those who supported catastrophism, opposed the ideas of actualism, since they defend that great valleys, geological formations and marine basins have taken place through impressive cataclysms that occurred in the past. They can be found in religious texts such as the Bible and its Deluge that can be explained as responsible for large alluvial layers that flooded the valley floor. Uniformity also has a place in all this. It is a geological science whose theories say that the processes that currently exist have occurred gradually. In addition, they are the cause of the geological characteristics that our planet has. What uniformism defends is that these processes have been maintained until today without alterations. Biological actualism It is a principle that sustains the relationship between the living creatures of today and those of the past. Basically, what biological actualism does is affirm that the processes that living beings carry out today were also carried out in the past. That none of that has changed so far. To make it clearer and easier to understand. If a species breathes and reproduces, it is very likely that these processes also did millions of years ago. So, if we combine this with geological processes, we will be affirming that the same processes have always been happening and that none of that has changed today. It is true that these processes have had their nuances, given that living beings have had to adapt to new environments and conditions that geological agents themselves have transformed over the years. However, although the nuances are changing, the base of the process is respected, that is, it is breathed and they reproduce. Biological actualism applies to processes such as reproduction and metabolism. Things are already beginning to change when we talk about the behavior of living beings. In this case, the processes are more complicated to apply biological actualism. As individuals adapt to new conditions, we cannot guarantee that it is the same behavior that they have at all times. Furthermore, it is impossible to deduce the behavior of extinct species and to know if it was similar to those of now, millions and millions of years ago. For example, before an ice age (link), living beings must modify their behavior in order to adapt to the conditions and survive. Migration is one of the behaviors that has been maintained throughout the evolution of living beings, since it is a survival instinct to want to find a habitat where they can reproduce and have good living conditions. Geological history of actualism In order to acquire all the information about what happened throughout history, actualism and uniformitarianism are used, which are defended in the faunal succession, the succession of events and the superposition of strata. According to the information that can be obtained from the different fossil strata, we have the following: • The position they had with respect to sea level • The temperature at which they lived • The flora and fauna present at that time • The moment when there were large tectonic movements As you can see, science tries to explain how the Earth evolved today.

Actualism

In this article we will tell you everything you need to know about actualism and the evolution of the Earth. Discover all this here.

Loess Reservoir

In this article we will show you the characteristics, formation and importance of the Loess tank. Learn all about it here.

Minerals and rocks

In this article we show you the characteristics of minerals and rocks, as well as their classification. If you have doubts about it, this is your post.

Ediacara fauna

In this article we talk to reveal the secrets of the Ediacara fauna. If you like geology and evolution, here you will learn about it.

Surely sometime in your life you have visited a cave. Caves are beautiful, fascinating and unique environments on earth where we have an endemic ecosystem. In the caves we can appreciate certain natural formations that are quite impressive for their beauty and uniqueness. These formations are called stalactites and stalagmites. Many people consider these geological formations as true works of art of nature. It is something worth knowing if you have not seen it before, it will surely surprise you. But how are stalactites and stalagmites different? How are they formed? We will answer all these questions throughout this article. What are stalactites and stalagmites? Although they have similar names, there are quite remarkable differences between them. Its formation and structure is different. Stalactites and stalagmites have one thing in common: they are speleotomes. This concept refers to the fact that they are mineral deposits that are formed in caves after their formation. The speleotomes arise as a result of the chemical precipitation that arises during the formation of solid elements from a solution. Both stalactites and stalagmites originate from calcium carbonate deposits. These formations occur in limestone caves. It does not mean that it is not the case where it can form in some artificial or anthropic cavities originating in other different mineral deposits. The main difference between these two formations is the location. Each one has a different formation process than the other and, therefore, its location within a cave also changes. We will analyze this in more detail, describing what each one is. Stalactites We begin with the formations that originate from the ceiling. Its growth begins at the top of the cave and goes downward. The start of a stalactite is a drop of mineralized water. As the drops fall, they leave traces of the calcite behind. Calcite is a mineral that is composed of calcium carbonate, which is why it precipitates in contact with water. Over the years, after the fall of successive mineralized drops, more and more calcite is deposited and accumulates. When this is crowded, we see that it gets bigger and bigger and takes on different shapes. The most common shape is the cone shape. The most common is to see a large number of calcite cones with water precipitating from the ceiling. The size of the cones depends on the amount of water droplets that has been circulating in that area and the time that this flow of drops has been dragging the calcite. It could be said that stalactites are rock formations that are created from top to bottom. In the center of the stalactite, there is a conduit through which mineral water continues to circulate. It is this factor that differentiates them from other geological formations that have a similar appearance. Stalagmites We now proceed to describe the stalagmites. On the other hand, they are formations that originate from the ground and develop upwards. Like the previous ones, stalagmites begin to form through a mineralized drop with calcite. These falling drops accumulate calcite deposits successively. The formations here can vary more since they do not have a central conduit like stalactites through which water droplets circulate due to the force of gravity. One difference is that they are more massive than stalactites. Due to the formation process, stalagmites have a more rounded shape rather than a cone shape. It is also more common to see some with irregular formations. The most common shapes are those straight tubular shapes called macaroni. Other common formations are the conulitos (they have a structure like a calcified crater), pearls (with a more rounded shape) and some more. Stalactites and stalagmites are normally facing each other. It is common to see a stalactite above and perpendicular to it a stalagmite. This is due to the fact that the drops that are precipitating from the stalactite have traces of calcite that are deposited on the ground to form the stalagmite. How stalactites and stalagmites are formed We are going to analyze the formation process of both deposits. As we have mentioned before, they are formed by a process of chemical precipitation. These precipitating minerals are dissolved in water. These formations are formed because the CO2 that is dissolved in the rainwater forms calcium carbonate when it comes into contact with the limestone rock. Depending on the rainfall regime and the level of water infiltration, these formations will occur sooner or later. It is the rainwater that seeps through the ground and dissolves the limestone rock. As a result, these droplets give shape to these deposits. Calcium bicarbonate is very soluble in water and is what is formed after contact with the CO2 that rainwater brings. This bicarbonate produces an outcrop where the CO2 escapes which, when reacting, precipitates in the form of calcium carbonate. The calcium carbonate begins to originate certain concretions around the point where the drop falls. This only occurs in stalactites, as the drops fall due to the force of gravity that forces them to fall to the ground. Therefore, the drops end up spilling onto the ground. Where to see these formations You will surely have been fascinated if you have never seen these formations before (which is not the most common). However, we are going to tell you the places where you can find the largest stalactite and stalagmite formations. Being a very slow formation, so that they only grow 2,5 cm in length, it takes about 4.000 or 5.000 years. The largest stalactite in the world can be found in the Caves of Nerja, located in the province of Malaga. It is 60 meters high and 18 meters in diameter. It took 450.000 years to form completely. On the other hand, the largest stalagmite in the world is 67 meters high and we can find it in the Martín Infierno cave, in Cuba.

Stalactites and stalagmites

In this post we explain in detail how stalactites and stalagmites are formed and where you can visit the largest in the world.

geosphere

In this post you can find everything related to the characteristics and importance of the geosphere. Enter here to know about it.

Colorado River

In this post we tell you everything you need to know about the Colorado River. Enter here to discover the fascinating features of this famous river.

On this planet there are areas where danger abounds more than in others and, therefore, these areas receive more striking names that you may think refers to something more dangerous. In this case we are going to talk about the Pacific ring of fire. Some know it as the Pacific ring of fire and others as the circum-Pacific belt. These names all refer to an area that surrounds this ocean and where there is both a very high seismic and volcanic activity. In this article we are going to tell you what the Pacific ring of fire is, what characteristics it has and its importance for studies and knowledge of the planet. What is the Pacific Ring of Fire In this area shaped like a horseshoe and not a circle, large amounts of seismic and volcanic activity are recorded. This makes this area more dangerous due to the disasters that can be caused. This belt stretches for more than 40.000 kilometers from New Zealand to the entire west coast of South America. It also crosses the entire area of the coasts of East Asia and Alaska and passes through the northeast of North America and Central America. As mentioned in plate tectonics (link), this belt marks the edges that exist on the Pacific plate along with other smaller tectonic plates that form what is called the earth's crust (link). Being an area with very high seismic and volcanic activity, it is classified as dangerous. How was it formed? The Pacific ring of fire was formed by the movement of tectonic plates. The plates are not fixed, but are in continuous movement. This is due to the convection currents that exist in the Earth's mantle. The difference in the density of materials causes them to move and lead to a movement of the tectonic plates. In this way, a displacement of a few centimeters per year is achieved. We do not notice it on a human scale, but it does show if we evaluate geological time (link). Over the millions of years, the movement of these plates has triggered the formation of the Pacific ring of fire. The tectonic plates are not totally united to each other, but there is a gap between them. They are usually about 80 km thick and move through the aforementioned convection currents in the mantle. As these plates move, they tend to both separate and collide with each other. Depending on the density of each of them, one can also sink over the other. For example, oceanic plates have a higher density than continental ones. Therefore, they are the ones that, when both plates collide, subduct in front of the other. This movement and collision of plates produces intense geological activity at the edges of the plates. For this reason, these areas are considered to be particularly active. The plate limits we find: • Convergent limits. In these limits are where the tectonic plates collide with each other. This can cause a heavier plate to collide with a lighter one. In this way, what is known as a subduction zone is created. One plate subducts over the other. In these areas where this occurs, there is a large volcanic quantity because this subduction causes the magma to rise through the crust. Obviously, this does not happen in a moment. It is a process that takes billions of years. This is how the volcanic arches have been formed. • Divergent limits. They are totally opposed to the convergent ones. In these the plates are in a state of separation. Each year they separate a little more, creating a new ocean surface. • Transformation limits. In these limits the plates neither separate nor come together, they only slide in a parallel or horizontal way. • Hot spots. They are the regions where the terrestrial mantle that is located just below the plate has more temperature than other areas. In these cases, the hot magma is able to rise to the surface and produce more active volcanoes. The limits of the plates are considered those areas where both geological and volcanic activity are concentrated. For this reason, it is normal that so many volcanoes and earthquakes are concentrated in the Pacific ring of fire. The problem is when an earthquake occurs in the sea and results in a tsunami with the corresponding tsunami. In these cases, the danger increases to such an extent that it can cause disasters like the one in Fukushima in 2011. Pacific Ring of Fire Activity As you may have noticed, volcanoes are not evenly distributed throughout the planet. Quite the contrary. They are part of an area where geological activity is greater. If this activity did not exist, volcanoes would not exist. Earthquakes are caused by the accumulation and release of energy between plates. These earthquakes are more common in countries where we have located along the Pacific Ring of Fire area. And it is that this ring of fire concentrates 75% of all the volcanoes that are active on the entire planet. 90% of earthquakes also occur. There are numerous islands and archipelagos together and different volcanoes that have violent and explosive eruptions. Volcanic arches are also common. They are chains of volcanoes that lie on top of subduction plates. This fact makes many people around the world have both fascination and fear for this belt of fire. This is because the force with which they act is tremendous and can unleash real natural disasters.

Pacific Ring of Fire

In this article we will show you the main characteristics of the Pacific ring of fire, its origin and importance. Do not miss it!

Core of the Earth

In this post we explain in great detail the characteristics, composition and origin of the Earth's core. Enter to know everything about it.

Earth's magnetic field

In this article we are going to explain what the Earth's magnetic field is, what it is for and how it originates. Enter here to learn more about our planet.

Continental crust

In this article we explain in great detail everything you need to know about the continental crust and its composition. Do not miss it!

Pegmatite

Enter here to learn in great detail everything about pegmatite. You can learn about its characteristics, origin and main uses.

Continental platform

The continental shelf is of great importance to governments as it offers many natural resources, enter here and learn about it.

Aconcagua

We explain in great detail everything you need to know about Aconcagua. Enter here to know the majesty of these mountains. Do not miss it!

Sandstone

Sandstone is the most abundant sedimentary rock on Earth. Enter here to know everything about this rock. Uses, training and classification.

Basque Mountains

In this post you can find detailed information about the Basque Mountains. Learn about the geology, vegetation and climate of these mountains.

Leon Mountains

In this post you can find very good information about the Montes de León. You will be able to know its main mountains and peaks and the prevailing climate.

Mountains of Malaga

In this article you can find the history, characteristics and beauty of the Montes de Málaga. Enter here to know it in depth.

Toledo Mountains

In this article we show you what to see in the mountains of Toledo. We give you a description of the main places to visit. Do not miss it!

Galicia Mountains

In this article we show you all the geological wealth of the Galician mountains. Learn about its characteristics and importance here.

Universal Mountains

In this article you will be able to find the geological characteristics of the Universal Mountains, in addition to knowing one of the best routes.

Ural mountains

We tell you the main characteristics of the Ural Mountains as well as their formation, economic importance, flora and fauna. Do not miss it!

Nicholas Steno

In this article we explain the entire biography of Nicolas Steno as well as his main feats. Find out all about the father of geology.

James hutton

In this post we tell you in great detail the biography and the discoveries that James Hutton contributed in geology. Know everything about him.

The largest lakes in the world

Enter here to know the largest lakes in the world and what their main characteristics are. We tell you in detail.

Charles lyell

In this article, you will meet Charles Lyell, one of the founding fathers of modern geology. Enter and learn about his work and discoveries.

Orinoco river

Enter here and learn everything about the Orinoco River. It is one of the largest rivers in the world and has great importance throughout South America.

Orogenesis

We explain in detail everything related to orogenesis. Learn how mountain ranges are formed. Come in now!

Great Lakes of North America

The 5 Great Lakes of North America have unique characteristics throughout the world. Enter here and know all its secrets. We tell you everything.

What is the diameter of the Earth?

In this article you will be able to know what the diameter of the Earth is and how it has been measured. Enter here and learn all about it.

Carpathian Mountains

The Carpathian Mountains are the target of many tourist activities due to their unique characteristics. Here you can know everything you need to know and see.

Mar Egeo

In this post you will get to know the Aegean Sea in depth, from what it is like and where it is located to the existing biodiversity and its threats. Come in and get to know it.

How the Earth was created

In this post you can learn everything about how the Earth was created. Learn more about our planet and how it has evolved over the years.

The red sea

In this post you will learn how the Red Sea was formed and what is its characteristic color. Do you want to learn about it? Enter here.

Geological agents

Geological agents are in charge of transforming the landscape and the Earth's relief. Learn what they are and how they work here.