Exploring Earth

Exploring Earth Science by Reynolds/Johnson is an innovative textbook intended for an introductory college geology course, such as Earth Science. This ground-breaking, visually spectacular book was designed from cognitive and educational research on how students think, learn, and study. Nearly all information in the book is built around 2,600 photographs and stunning illustrations, rather than being in long blocks of text that are not articulated with figures. These annotated illustrations help students visualize geologic processes and concepts, and are suited to the way most instructors already teach. To alleviate cognitive load and help students focus on one important geologic process or concept at a time, the book consists entirely of two-page spreads organized into 20 chapters. Each two-page spread is a self-contained block of information about a specific topic, emphasizing geologic concepts, processes, features, and approaches. These spreads help students learn and organize geologic knowledge in a new and exciting way. Inquiry is embedded throughout the book, modeling how scientists investigate problems. The title of each two-page spread and topic heading is a question intended to get readers to think about the topic and become interested and motivated to explore the two-page spread for answers. Each chapter is a learning cycle, which begins with a visually engaging two-page spread about a compelling geologic issue. Each chapter ends with an Investigation that challenges students with a problem associated with a virtual place. The world-class media, spectacular presentations, and assessments are all tightly articulated with the textbook. This book is designed to encourage students to observe, interpret, think critically, and engage in authentic inquiry, and is highly acclaimed by reviewers, instructors, and students.

An account of the impact of space exploration on our understanding of the geology and geophysics of Earth.

Why is Earth the only planet in the solar system that has life? Why are there four seasons? What causes the weather? Discover the answers to these questions and more as you explore Earth.

Earth is the planet we know the most about because it’s our home, but we’re always learning more. Every day we find out something new about the animals that live in the oceans, the plants that grow in the forests, and what’s inside Earth’s crust. Readers will enjoy taking a closer look at some of the most fascinating things about the planet we call home, expanding their knowledge of common science curriculum topics. Through vivid photographs and clearly labeled diagrams, they will learn even more about our fascinating planet.

Diamonds and salt are both minerals, but diamonds are more rare than salt. Curious readers will learn what physical and chemical conditions must be present for minerals to form. They'll discover how minerals are identified and how they are used in daily life. Informative and interesting text presents readers with this science content in a fun way. A graphic organizer shows how different minerals are identified and fact boxes provide readers with exciting supplementary information.

It’s a tough life out there. Throughout Earth’s six major biomes—tundra, taiga, rain forest, temperate deciduous forest, grassland, and desert—plants and animals use special strategies to cope with challenges in their environment. Have you ever wondered how plants survive in the desert? Or what happens to worms in the winter? Or where you fit in a food web? In this book, you’ll find these answers and more by doing experiments about Earth’s biomes. Learn to think like an ecologist as you plant, bake, and dig your way through biomes around the globe.

Earth's water has been recycled for more than 4 billion years. This is thanks to the water cycle, a continuous system in which water moves between bodies of water, the atmosphere, and land. Students will learn about the different states of water and the processes water undergoes as it moves through the water cycle. Colorful photographs and informational diagrams help students visualize the movement of water on Earth. Primary sources add depth to the text by providing real-life examples of this fascinating topic.