Earth

In the last quarter century our knowledge of the forces that shape the Earth has grown exponentially, even as one of those forces - the behavior of humankind - has threatened the very survival of the planet. Never have we enjoyed greater understanding of earth sciences than we do now - and never has such an understanding been more important. This book serves as an extraordinary introduction to the way the Earth works. Splendidly illustrated, clearly written, it is a. Complete, up-to-date reference on the making, shaping and workings of the planet, providing essential background to any informed discussion of the critical environmental issues that face us today. From the semi-molten interior just four miles beneath the ocean floor to the protective atmosphere hundreds of miles above, Earth explores the origin and nature of the living planet we inhabit, along with its inner workings, life-supporting rhythms and surface features. Five. Major sections survey the planet. Planet Earth considers the cosmic connections that bind us to the universe and the powerhouse sun that feeds our living world. The Interior ventures beneath land and ocean into turbulent volcanic realms and the constantl