Discussed are details of what is known about the composition, physical characteristics, and formation of the planet Pluto and its satellite, Charon. Alignments of these bodies and details of their rotations and revolutions are described. (CW)

Described are concepts involved with the formation and actions of the Mid-Ocean Ridge. Sea-floor spreading, the magma supply model, discontinuities, off-axis structures, overlaps and deviation, and aquatic life are discussed. (CW)

Reasons for color in sedimentary rocks are explored. Graphs relating the color of rock and corresponding organic content and oxidation state of iron, and of the temporal evolution of a rock sample, are presented. The development of these graphs is discussed. (CW)

The major concepts inherent in studies of organism-substrate interrelationships as a whole are critiqued. Various modes, styles, processes and products of marine sediment bioturbation are described. Shortcomings of the present state of research knowledge on this topic are discussed. Listed are 154 references. (CW)

Provides a format for the identification of fossils when introducing geologic time in the laboratory. Presents an organization of fossils into three major groups based on radial, bilateral, and no apparent symmetry. States that this method reinforces student learning and provides for an orderly approach to fossils. (RT)

Describes an introductory course in geology for nonscience majors that involves students in laboratory exercises related to rock classification. (GS)

Presents a three-part exercise which provides undergraduates with opportunities to work with data related to the earth's magnetic field. Includes student materials for activities in determining the history of the earth's magnetic field, in finding the general pattern of declination, and for looking for a polar reversal history. (ML)

Discusses the destabilizing influences that affect feedback systems in the earth and trigger disorganization. Presents information that integrates mantle degassing with feed-back systems, and the Sun-Earth-Space energy flow system which is the primary source of energy that drives the Earth's biosphere. (RT)

The predicted increase in geoscience careers and research opportunities is discussed. A growing environmental concern and the need to search for oil outside the Persian Gulf has led to an educational revitalization in this area. (KR)

Describes types of meteors and micrometeorites that enter the Earth's atmosphere. Presents an activity where students collect micrometeorites with a strip of tape in an undisturbed outdoor area. After 24 hours, they examine the tape by sandwiching it between 2 glass slides and view through a microscope at 100X. (PR)

Describes a method of utilizing Silly Putty for making fossil impressions. (SL)

Describes a geology laboratory exercise involving weathering and topographic maps which allows students to put knowledge to practical application. (SL)

Describes a method illustrating continental drift by plotting paleomagnetic pole positions on plastic globes. (SL)

Provides background material and laboratory procedures for an activity which requires students to compare (in quantitative terms) fossils from 10 localities and to objectively define provinces, regions, and realms. These paleobiogeographic relationships are then used to reconstruct the drift histories of the three continents on which the 10…

Described is a rock encyclopedia combining rock sample sets and encyclopedic word and picture entries which can be used as a realistic information resource for independent study or as a part of a course. (JT)