The word geology is derived from the Greek word "geo" meaning earth and "logos" knowledge. Thus in a nut shell it is defined as the “Science of Earth”. Earth is estimated to be 4.54 billion years old. The study of Geology aims at understanding the evolution of the planet and its inhabitants, from ancient times to the present through the physical and chemical analysis of rocks. James Hutton a Scottish farmer and naturalist, is known as the founder of modern geology.

The study of geology enables us to know about the materials by which the Earth is made up of. It helps us to know about the structure of the earth. Geologists studies some of society's most important problems, related to water (hydrogeology), and mineral resources (mineralogy), the environment (environmental geology), climate change (climatology); and natural hazards like landslides, volcanoes, earthquakes, floods, etc. The study of geology enables us to understand the climate of the past and the present then relate the past with the present and predict the future scenarios.

Traditionally, geology has been divided into two main subdivisions: physical geology and historical geology.

Physical geology is the study of the earth's rocks, minerals, and soils and how they have formed through time.

Historical geology is the study of changes in Earth and its life forms over time. It enables us to understand about palaeo-climatic changes, palaeo-seismology, and stratigraphy of the earth as well as palaeontology (study of fossils).

Geology is the only branch of Earth Science which enables us to known about the Plate Tectonics and epeirogenic movements (mountain building).

Geologists explores the earth materials and they not only inspect the metals and minerals, but also search for oil and natural gas, ore deposits, ground water and the various methods to extract the natural resources above and beneath the earth’s surface.

A person who studies all these is called a Geologist. A Geologist not only studies rocks and minerals but also studies how certain factors like earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and floods can help shape the surface of the Earth as well.

A geologist gets opportunities to work in the industries related to mining, oil and gas (on shore and off shore), minerals and water resources.

If you like science and care about the earth, gets fascinated by the natural world, and like working outdoors, and make your life thrilling and adventurous then always opt for geology. The employment opportunities for Geologists are also very good. Geologists along with backgrounds of Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics are in great demand.

The different public and private sectors that recruit geologist are OIL, ONGC, SAIL, Research and Development Departments, Geological Survey of India, Coal India Limited, Mining Industry, Cement Manufacturing Plants, Onshore and Offshore Drilling units, Geotechnical Engineering Companies and many more. In a nutshell, there is an immense employment opportunity for geologists to pursue a promising career.

- By Souvik Guha ( Asst. Teacher - TGT)