List and describe the sciences that collectively make up Earth science. Discuss the scales of space and time in Earth science.

Geology - this is the study of the solid Earth. Physical geology examines the materials that comprise the Earth

and historical geology aims to understand the origins and development of the planet.

Oceanography - examines the composition and dynamics of the world's oceans. It also involves the study of

coastal processes and seafloor topography as well as marine life.

Meteorology - this is the study of Earth's atmosphere. It includes weather and climate.

Astronomy - this examines Earth as a body in space, both as part of the solar system and as part of a larger

universe.

Environmental science - includes the study of natural resources, environmental hazards, and how people

influence their environments and Earth processes.

Name the two broad subdivisions of geology and distinguish between them.

Physical geology - this is the study of the materials and processes that define the planet Earth. It includes the

study of Earth's composition, events such as volcanism, and the dynamics of Earth processes such as plate tectonics.

Historical geology - this is the study of the origins and evolution of Earth. It pieces together a chronological

history of Earth based on clues in the rock record. These clues can include evidence of physical and biological

changes throughout Earth's 4.6 billion year history.