LibGuides: Rocks & Minerals: Media

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The Rock Cycle (20:37) In this program a young environmental engineer takes viewers into the field for an in-depth look at the rock cycle and the geologic processes that occur within Earth’s core, mantle, and crust. Using dynamic graphics to illustrate essential terms, the video covers the formation of igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic rocks; their physical and chemical properties; subgroups and examples of each; and where they fit in to the rock cycle. The video also provides an informative overview of minerals and the methods used to classify them.
Rocks and Minerals (23:21) Knowledge of the physics and chemistry of the planet’s “bones” is essential to a complete understanding of Earth science. Ranging from the Mohs scale and specific gravity to silicates, carbonates, and halides, this video delves deeply into the composition, properties, and classification of rocks and minerals. An element of forensic-type analysis is also brought into play, since any stony formation represents a portion of the planet’s history and local conditions. A viewable/printable instructor’s guide is available online.