Engineering geology Subject and objects of geology Introduction

Engineering geology Subject and objects of geology

Introduction • Geology is a science about the Earth. It studies composition, structure and development history of the Earth. Geology (Gr. ge – Earth, logos – study) – study about the Earth. Subject of geology is the Earth planet. Objects of studying geology are minerals, rocks, fossils, geological processes. • Modern geology presents series of sciences. Among branches of geology scientific subjects, studying material composition of earth crust, its structure, geological processes and their historical sequence, and also applied sciences are emitted (table. 1).

Branches of geology Hydrogeology – science about origin, physical, chemical properties, movements and conditions underground water’s of occurrence and manifestations of them on the earth surface. Engineering geology – science about geological conditions of construction and operation of engineering structures (boreholes, trunk pipelines, underground facilities and storage facilities, mines, buildings and etc. ), i. e. explores issues of application of geology in engineering. Environmental geology examines the conditions and consequences of anthropogenic impact on the geological environment to forecast its changes and establish a scientific basis to ensure the rational use and protection of the environment. 3

Methods of researching in geology A specific feature of the development of the Earth is exceptional duration and the enormity of many geological processes. They are spread in the huge territory and stretched for millions and billions of years. In comparison with this not only life of individuals, but also the existence of all humanity seems instantaneous episode in the history of planet. Some geological processes are not available directly for observation and they are not reproducible in the laboratory. These processes can be judged only by their results, manifested, for example, in formations of different rocks and minerals, geological structures, different forms of earth surface’s relief and etc. , determining the structure and composition of earth crust. These processes can be understood by restoring step by step their history and, finally, history of the Earth, its solid shell.

• Geological mapping • • Types of works: 1. Field works 2. Drilling 3. Laboratory researches

Methods of researching in geology • Remount sensing methods: • 1. Geophysics • 2. Aircraft and spacecraft

Economical significance of geology Geology has especially great importance for mining science, industry, energy and oil and gas industry. In connection with the intensification of the mining industry, the growing trend of decline in the quality of mineral raw materials and the complexity of the geological conditions of field development, problem of forecasting of these conditions, which is possible only on the basis of detailed geological research facilities, is becoming urgent.

Engineering geology is the application of geology to engineering study for the purpose of assuring that the geological factors regarding the location, design, construction, operation and maintenance of engineering works are recognized and accounted for.

Engineering geology studies may be performed during the planning, environmental impact analysis, civil or structural engineering design, value engineering and construction phases of public and private works projects, and during postconstruction and forensic phases of projects. Works completed by engineering geologists include; geological hazard assessments, geotechnical, material properties, landslide and slope stability, erosion, flooding, dewatering, and seismic investigations, etc.

Engineering geology studies are performed by a geologist or engineering geologist that is educated, trained and has obtained experience related to the recognition and interpretation of natural processes, the understanding of how these processes impact human made structures (and vice versa), and knowledge of methods by which to mitigate hazards resulting from adverse natural or human made conditions. The principal objective of the engineering geologist is the protection of life and property