Early History of
the Terrestrial Planetsdiscusses
how Earth and the other planets differentiated
into layered bodies. The geologic processes
that have shaped Earth are compared with
those of Mercury, Mars, Venus, and the
Moon and the history of climate as well
as tectonics on Venus and Mars is emphasized.
Mars receives special attention owing
to the spectacular new results from recent
geologically-oriented missions, culminating
with the first in situ outcrop studies
on another planet.
Geobiology: Life
Interacts with the Earth
describes how the biosphere works as a
system, and what gives Earth its ability
to support life through the cycling of
biologically important elements.
The chapter discusses the remarkable role
of microorganisms in Earth processes,
including mineral and rock formation (and
destruction). It also discuss geobiological
interactions throughout Earth's history,
and some of the major evolutionary events
that changed our planet.
The Climate
System now appears before
the chapters on surface processes so that
the climate geosystem can be better integrated
into those chapters.
