What counts as a geological phenomenon?

A geological phenomenon is an observable event or feature that is explained by or sheds light on the science of geology. These events range from mineralogic and lithologic processes to endogenic forces like plate tectonics and exogenic processes like erosion. They provide vital insight into the physical composition and dynamic changes of the Earth.

What we know

• A geological phenomenon is defined as a phenomenon explained by or shedding light on the science of geology. [2]
• Examples of geological phenomena include mineralogic, lithologic, and rock-type formations. [2]
• Endogenic phenomena encompass events such as plate tectonics, continental drift, earthquakes, and volcanism. [2]
• A natural phenomenon is a broader category defined as an observable event that is not man-made, which can include physical processes like erosion. [3]

Where to go next

• how it workedHow do plate tectonics drive geological changes?
• compared withWhat distinguishes natural phenomena from geological ones?
• what caused itHow does erosion shape the Earth's surface?
• the bigger pictureWhat are the core branches of Earth science?
• a case in pointHow do impact craters form on planetary bodies?
• an unexpected connectionHow are philosophical concepts of phenomena linked to scientific observation?The modern scientific usage of observable phenomena connects directly back to Immanuel Kant and ancient Greek philosophy regarding observable events versus noumena.

Sources

• [1]list of geological phenomena (Wikidata Q280591) · CC0 1.0
• [2]List of geological phenomena · CC BY-SA 4.0
• [3]List of natural phenomena · CC BY-SA 4.0
• [4]Phenomenon · CC BY-SA 4.0
• [5]Glossary of meteorology · CC BY-SA 4.0