Tag Archives: Geology

14Dec 2012

National Geographic Channels To Premiere Anniversary Program On ‘New Age Of Exploration’ In January

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NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC SOCIETY 125TH ANNIVERSARY

WASHINGTON, Dec. 14, 2012 /Coal Geology/ — In a publishing first for National Geographic magazine, each copy of the January 2013 issue will feature five covers highlighting the Society’s 125th anniversary theme, “A New Age of Exploration.” The multiple covers will be included in the worldwide English-language edition and in 12 local-language editions and are exclusively supported by Rolex. These editions are read by more than 50 million people around the globe.

NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC SOCIETY 125TH ANNIVERSARYThe January covers highlight the superlatives of exploration — farthest, wildest, smallest, highest and deepest. The top cover spotlights the farthest reaches of space travel as it looks at “Why We Explore.”The four additional covers profile other ways exploration is being pushed to the limits: The Wildest focuses on saving Ecuador’s pristine rain forest; the Smallest looks at the invisible world of microbes; the Highest features mountaineer Cory Richards; and the Deepest highlights filmmaker James Cameron’s solo dive to the Mariana Trench.

The “New Age of Exploration” theme will be marked Society-wide throughout 2013, including the National Geographic Channels, website, books, magazines, video and live events. The yearlong initiative has been made possible through a 125th anniversary partnership with Rolex.

National Geographic Channels will premiere a 125th anniversary special, “A New Age of Exploration: National Geographic at 125,” on Friday, Jan. 11, in the United States and globally throughout the month. The program profiles the new superheroes of exploration — amazing people who are forging new ground as they square off against the latest frontiers. National Geographic Channels will dedicate more than 125 hours of programming to the theme of exploration throughout the year in its “Explorer Top 125″ programming event.

A dynamic online hub at www.nationalgeographic.com/125 will include special features such as an interactive exploration timeline, videos, interviews and photo galleries updated regularly during the Society’s 12-month focus on the future of exploration.

On June 13, 2013, the 125th anniversary will be celebrated at a “National Geographic Evening of Exploration” gala, where the Society’s top medals and honors will be awarded to explorers and other recipients. All proceeds from the gala will go to National Geographic’s Fund for Exploration.

“For 125 years, National Geographic has been at the forefront of discovery, driven by a passion and purpose to explore and illuminate the world. And there is so much more to know to help us reimagine not only our world but our place in it,” said Claudia Malley, executive vice president and worldwide publisher, National Geographic Global Media. “I can think of no better partner than Rolex, which is at the forefront of innovation and exploration, to join us in this quest.”

“With its shared passion for exploration, Rolex is delighted to partner with National Geographic on its 125th anniversary initiative. For decades, Rolex has supported pioneers of exploration, from the tallest mountain to the deepest ocean trench, and we look forward to being there, wherever man dares to venture next,” said Arnaud Boetsch, communications & image manager of Rolex SA.

About the National Geographic Society
The National Geographic Society is one of the world’s largest nonprofit scientific and educational organizations. Founded in 1888 to “increase and diffuse geographic knowledge,” the Society works to inspire people to care about the planet. National Geographic reflects the world through its magazines, television programs, films, music and radio, books, DVDs, maps, exhibitions, live events, expeditions, interactive media and merchandise. National Geographic magazine, the Society’s official journal, is read by more than 60 million people each month. The National Geographic Channel reaches 440 million households in 171 countries in 38 languages. National Geographic Digital Media receives more than 20 million visitors a month. National Geographic has funded more than 10,000 scientific research, conservation and exploration projects and supports an education program promoting geography literacy. For more information, visit www.nationalgeographic.com. Facebook: www.facebook.com/natgeo

About Rolex
Leading brand of the Swiss watch industry, Rolex, headquartered in Geneva, enjoys an unrivalled reputation for quality and expertise the world over. Its OYSTER watches, all certified as chronometers for their precision, are symbols of excellence, performance and prestige. Pioneer in the development of the wristwatch as early as 1905, the brand is at the origin of numerous major watchmaking innovations, such as the OYSTER, the first waterproof wristwatch, launched in 1926, and the PERPETUAL rotor self-winding mechanism introduced in 1931. Rolex has registered over 400 patents in the course of its history. A truly integrated manufacturing company, Rolex designs, develops and produces in-house all the essential components of its watches, from the casting of the gold alloys to the machining, crafting, assembly and finishing of the movement, case, dial and bracelet. Rolex is also actively involved in supporting the arts, sports, the spirit of enterprise, and the environment through a broad palette of sponsoring activities as well as philanthropic programmes.

Official website: www.rolex.com

SOURCE National Geographic Society

CONTACT: Heather Wyatt, +1-917-952-8679, ngtraveler@hwyattpr.com

Web Site: http://www.nationalgeographic.com

27Oct 2011

ASBOG Sample questions on Mineralogy: Professional Geologist Practice Test

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Hello All.

We are just starting the online quiz sections for various section of ASBOG Geology (FG and PG) tests. More questions will be added to each tests. Please send sample questions to admin@coalgeology.com. The sample questions and answers are also useful for any students studying geology.

Note: ASBOG® is not affiliated with, nor does it provide information for/to, or endorse, any examination preparation course(s), study guide/manuals/aid (e.g., flash cards), or publication other than its own “Professional GeologistsCandidate Handbook”.

None of questions are from any real ASBOG test or from the sample questions from the ASBOG manual. The questions are targeted to improve understanding of the subject matter while helping you improve the score on tests.

The test in this page contains questions from mostly mineralogy. Mineralogy includes a lot of things so does our set of questions.

According to ASBOG, Mineralogy, Petrology, and Geochemistry constitute about 11% of the FG test and about 5% of the PG part. Sections include

  • Identify minerals and rocks and their characteristics. (FG)
  • Identify and interpret rock and mineral sequences, associations, and genesis. (FG)
  • Evaluate geochemical and isotopic data, and construct geochemical models related to rocks and minerals. (FG/PG)
  • Determine type, degree, and effects of rock and mineral alteration
  • Plan and conduct mineralogic, petrologic, and geochemical investigations, including the use of modeling and geophysics.(PG)
  • Rock and mineral identification; Crystal symmetry, systems, and forms; Igneous rocks and processes; Sedimentary rocks and processes; Metamorphic rocks and processes; Geochemical reactions and diagenesis; Professionalism  and ethics (FG/PG)
  • Project management, organization, and economics (PG)

Take the test and enjoy.

Geology Practice Quiz on Mineralogy (Take test for ASBOG Preparation)

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Topics to Consider:

  • Origin of Elements and Composition-Structure of the Earth
  • Physical Properties of Minerals
  • Chemical Properties of Minerals
  • Chemistry and Structure of Minerals
  • Optical Properties of Minerals
  • Isotropic and Uniaxial Minerals
  • Biaxial Minerals
Best Mineralogy Books to buy for the ASBOG geology test (FG and PG):



 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Wonderful course notes to review your mineralogy:
  1. Mineralogy Lecture Notes:http://www.metu.edu.tr/~lunel/
  2. Crustal Materials Class Notes: http://www.uwgb.edu/dutchs/mpnotes.htm
  3. Mineralogy Lecture Notes: http://www.science.smith.edu/geosciences/min_jb/Lecture_Notes.html
  4. Minerals: http://www.tulane.edu/~sanelson/geol111/minerals.htm
  5. Crystal Structure and Mineral Classes (MUST READ FOR ASBOG TEST) :http://www.usouthal.edu/geology/haywick/GY111/111-6.pdf 
  6. State of matter: http://www.uh.edu/~jbutler/physical/chapter2notes.html
  7. Mineralogy notes by Prof. Stephen A. Nelson: http://www.tulane.edu/~sanelson/eens211/
29Apr 2011

Tools for Field Geologists: List of things to carry

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2. Rock Chisel

April 29, 2011, Bluefield (Virginia): There are several things (equipment) that a geologist often uses in the field. This article tries to list the most important tools and equipment that you should carry during a field trip. The list is no way complete but details the most commonly used tools by a geologist. Depending on the type of field work, need of equipment could vary widely. However, this list should get you started towards the right direction. If you are young geologist starting to collect your field tools, you could also find links to some of the items that you can purchase online for your collection too.

 

1. Geological Hammer

1. Geological Hammer

Hammers: Geological hammer is the most essential tool for any geologists. “Estwing E3-22P 22-Ounce Rock Pick” hammer is a great example of geological hammer within budget (cost 33 dollars only). Forged 1 piece head and handle of full polished tool steel. Blue nylon vinyl, Shock Reduction Grip is ergonomically correct to reduce vibration. 22 oz.

 

2. Rock Chisel

2. Rock Chisel

Chisel for Rock: Sometimes it is hard to break hard rocks. Rock-Chisels could be very useful for collecting samples in such cases. Estwing’s geological chisels are forged in one piece and have been reinvented by adding an unbreakable polymer cap and an oil resistant cushion grip. The result is a comfortable grip in both extreme heat and cold weather conditions. Our polymer cap has 2-1/2 times the striking surface of a standard chisel for easier targeting with strength to last. Whether you need a chisel to dig out a T-Rex or just do brick work, these are the tools for you. his Estwing Rock Chisel has a 1-1/8 inch wide flat chisel edge great for working cracks in solid rock, splitting layers looking for fossils, splitting geodes in half, or splitting rocks for tumbling. This is the standard chisel for the rockhound. PROUDLY MADE IN USA Maximum hammer head weight is 3 pounds.

 

3. Tape Measure

3. Tape Measure

Tape Measures: Measuring the length, weight and height of the rocks or outcrop is essential during field trips. Any good tape measure will do.  Stanley Powerlock tape rules add convenience and usability for all kinds of measuring needs. With Stanley’s unique sidelock the rule holds the exact measurement reading to prevent slippage and costly errors. All Stanley rules are designed with a convenient belt hook. It provides easy access to the tape while you are on the job. With lengths of 3 to 200 feet – Stanley offers tools to fit all your measuring needs. This Tape rule is the badge of the contractor. A few astonishing features have made this product the leader in the industry. The mylar coated blade for unsurpassed durability, blade lasts up to 10 times longer in comparative tests of abrasion resistance. There is a heat treated spring for longer useful product life. The Tru-Zero hook automatically adjusts to allow for its own thickness giving exact readings for either inside or outside measurements. The blade is two colored graphics for better readability and fewer measuring mistakes.

 

4. Hand Lens

4. Hand Lens

Hand Lens: A good hand-lens is always helpful to identify minerals within the rock and should be part of your field kit all the time. There are many different kinds of hand lens available in the market. We have used “Bausch & Lomb 81-61-71 81-61-71 10x Hastings Bausch & Lomb Magnifiers “with Magnification: 10x Focal Distance: 1 Lens Diameter: 15.80 mm.

Dilute Acid: A bottle of dilute acid helps you to identify the carbonates very easily in the field.

Sampling bag and Markers: Proper sampling bags or containers should be carried to the field. It may be useful to create identifier tags for the bottles at the office before the field trip.

Water Proof Field Book: Field Book should be water proof such as “Rite in the Rain Geological Field Book Kit”. This all-weather bound book kit comes equipped with the C540F Cordura® Pouch, the 540F Geology Field book with 20 helpful reference pages, and a No. 97 All-Weather Pen. Kit does not include an acid bottle.

Map Case: A good map case is essential for extending the life of field maps . For example, b using the “Aqua-Quest 100% Waterproof Map Case “watertight protective pouch, you can extend the life of those expensive and valuable maps. Ideal for topographical maps, small navigation charts for boating, and walking tour maps. It can be used for just about any item that you want to keep dry – including film, food, and first aid supplies. This item is super multifunctional, and very good quality. The map case can hold up to 5 standard sized maps.

Aerial Photo/map: Search Google Maps for the aerial image of the field area if you do not have better source for aerial image. Topographic maps should however always accompany the aerial map. Aerial maps are great for identifying distinct features like houses and roads very easily.

Pocket Stereoscope: Pocket Stereoscope could be very useful for most field survey. Stereoscope adds another dimension to the mapping effort. The Sci Edge Student Stereoscope is a free-standing stereoscope with legs fold for compact storage. It has focal length – 119mm; 2.2X magnification; Adjustable interpupillary distance; it can be used with relief-map books.

[ReviewAZON asin="0789491060" display="inlinepost"]Handbook for Rocks and Minerals: It is often useful to have some books to help identifying rocks and minerals in the field. The Smithsonian Handbook of Rocks and Minerals combines 600 vivid full–color photos with descriptions of more than 500 specimens. This authoritative and systematic photographic approach, with words never separated from pictures, marks a new generation of identification guides. Each entry combines a precise description with annotated photographs to highlight the chief characteristics of the rock or mineral and distinguishing features. Color–coded bands provide a clear, at–a–glance facts for quick reference. In addition, each mineral entry features an illustration showing the crystal system to which the mineral belongs. Designed for beginners and experienced collectors alike, the Smithsonian Handbook of Rocks and Minerals explains what rocks or minerals are, how they are classified, and how to start a collection. To help in the initial stages of rock identification, a clear visual key illustrates the differences between igneous, metamorphic and sedimentary rocks, then guides the reader to the correct rock entry. A concise glossary provides instant understanding of technical and scientific terms.

 

Camera

Camera

Camera: A good camera is essential for all geologists. Photographs are very useful to document features of the field site. For example try Nikon’s Coolpix L110, with 12.1 effective megapixels and an incredible 15x optical Zoom-Nikkor glass lens for stunning prints as large as 16 x 20 inches. The camera’s new huge bright 3.0-inch high-resolution (460k-dot) LCD that lets you compose and share your pictures with family and friends. The Coolpix L110, with Nikon’s 5-way VR Image Stabilization System takes incredible pictures, incredibly easy plus you can take HD (720p) video with stereo sound! Nikon’s Smart Portrait System which; automatically detects your subjects face, takes a picture when they smile and warns you if they blinked

Clothing: Proper and adequate clothing is also needed for field trips. Choice of clothing will depend on the weather condition during the field trip. Apart from the weather, there could be rules regarding clothing imposed by state agencies or the mining companies. For example, most of the mine sites in West Virginia now require metatarsal boots.

Apart from the regular items listed above, you may need to carry various other specialized tools depending on the type of work. For example, for a water sampling trip, I would typically carry sampling bottles, sampling bags, chain of custody forms; address and phone number of lab; pH-meter; field test kit for dissolved and total iron, field test kit for dissolves gases such as oxygen and carbon dioxide and so on. Now, if I am going for a hydrological testing, I would take flow meters, calibrated buckets, stop-watch etc. Read the article on Inflation Packer Tests to know more.

If you like to add some more items to the list, please leave us a comment or email to admin@coalgeology.com

References:

17Feb 2011

Geology of the Great Basin (Max C. Fleishmann Series in Great Basin Natural History)

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[ReviewAZON asin="0874177901"]