Digital Encyclopedia of Earth Science


Welcome to our free, open-access Earth science textbook. Over the next several years, the Digital Encyclopedia of Earth Science will grow to cover most Earth science topics. Initial subjects covered include big ideas, minerals, fossils, climate, and climate change (links below). "Quick Introductions" provide brief overviews of that will be expanded upon in later Digital Encyclopedia chapters.

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Earth Systems Science


The Big Ideas

Minerals, Rocks, Plate Tectonics, and Earth Hazards


Minerals


Introduction to Rocks

Introduction to Plate Tectonics

Introduction to Glaciers

Introduction to Earth Hazards

United States Earth Science Quick Facts (in development)

Information about the official state fossil, rock, mineral, gem, and highest and lowest point of elevation in each U.S. state, along with suggestions for places to visit in person.

Fossils, Paleontology, and Evolution

Note: Some of the links below lead to the Digital Atlas of Ancient Life, which is also managed and operated by the Paleontological Research Institution.


Digital Encyclopedia of Ancient Life


3D Virtual Collection

Over 500 interactive 3D models of fossil specimens from our collections and museum exhibits.


Fossils of the United States

Overviews of the fossils of each major region of the United States (in development).


Introduction to Common Fossil Groups

Climate, Climate Change, and Energy


Why Talk About Climate Change?

What is Climate?


Evidence for and Causes of Recent Climate Change


U.S. Regional Climates


Climate Change Mitigation


Climate Change Adaptation


Obstacles to Addressing Climate Change


Perspective


Introduction to Past and Present Climate

Introduction to Energy