Geology is not only a theoretical but also an applied science. Knowledge in this field contributes to the rapid development of industry, construction, and other city-forming industries that are constantly evolving around the world. The following are the most common applications of knowledge of geological terms and the characteristics of materials, minerals, and rocks in practice.
Construction
Before the erection of any capital construction facility, knowledge of geology is necessary, which implies the execution of a formal report on the results of engineering and geological surveys, which will determine the following characteristics of the soil base:
- The number and thickness of layers of soil base in the well.
- Physical and mechanical characteristics of each layer of the soil base.
- The actual and predicted level of groundwater rise.
- Assessment of the area’s potential waterlogging capability.
- Determination of the chemical composition and fractions of the soil base.
- Evaluation of the thickness of the compressible thickness of the soil under pressure from the projected building.
According to the results of engineering-geological surveys, the expert also draws conclusions about the general suitability of the soil base for the erection of the facility. If the general strength and strain characteristics of the ground do not allow the property to be constructed without preparation, the expert makes a number of important recommendations on the type of foundation as well as on the methods for strengthening the upper layers within the compressible thickness and the need for a circular drainage system if the groundwater table is too high.
Extraction of minerals
Knowledge of geology also allows you to accurately anticipate the amount, location, and approximate percentage of minerals in the soil basement. Trial sampling provides insight into which industries may use a certain category of minerals or rock samples.
Before organizing a quarry, sand pit or mining and processing plant, geologists initially perform a survey, the results of which determine the area and depth of the excavation, the properties of the extracted rocks, the total volume and cost-effectiveness of this activity.
Thus, answering the question, what is geology, we can say that this science is the most important branch in modern industry, which allows to determine exactly the composition of soils, their age, physical and mechanical properties, as well as to prepare a business plan and determine the economic feasibility of future activities of the enterprise.