One model of future climate predicts that, after a warm interval of a thousand years or so, the next ice age will peak in 23,000 years. (Author/BB)

Presents an analysis of the causes of earthquakes. Topics discussed include (1) geological and seismological factors that determine the effect of a particular earthquake on a given structure; (2) description of some large earthquakes such as the San Francisco quake; and (3) prediction of earthquakes. (HM)

Describes a laboratory exercise using relief models, aerial photographs, topographic maps, and cone studies to determine depth and thickness of a concealed mineralized zone. (MA)

Three mineralogy meetings which occurred in 1978 are reported. (BB)

A brief summary of the year's activity. (BB)

Discusses the process of stellar death and the correlation between the size of a star in solar masses and its way of death. The amount of mass loss that occurs during the life and death of a star is also discussed. (HM)

Lists the names and addresses, in alphabetical order, of 381 known professional organizations of societies in earth science all over the world. Another list of names and addresses of the fifty U.S. State surveys is also supplied. (GA)

Although helium is the second most abundant element in the universe, very little is found in the earth. This article discusses the geochemical cycle of helium and attempts to account for the scarcity of helium. (MA)

Reviews coal-geology projects being done by government agencies. Reports production and exploration activities throughout the United States. (MA)

Engineering geology remains a potpourri of applied classical geology, and 1977 witnessed an upswing in demand for these services. Traditional foundation-related work was slight, but construction related to national needs increased briskly. Major cities turned to concerns of transit waste-water treatment and solid-waste disposal. (Author/MA)

The past year saw a re-emphasis on the practical aspects of hydrology due to regional drought patterns, urban flooding, and agricultural and energy demands on water resources. Highlights of hydrologic symposia, publications, and events are included. (MA)

The past year is seen as not particularly good for industrial minerals and for industry in general. Environmental concerns continued to trouble the industry with unacceptable asbestos concentrations and chlorofluorocarbon effects on ozone. A halting U.S. economy also affected industrial progress. (MA)

Geologic mapping in the United States increased by about one-quarter in the past year. Examinations of mapping trends were in the following categories: (1) Mapping at scales of 1:100, 000; (2) Metric-scale base maps; (3) International mapping, and (4) Planetary mapping. (MA)

Much active research and innovative thinking is taking place in the field. Current efforts attempt to synthesize the information that has been generated this far. This article reviews the synthesis publications of the past year. (MA)

Reviews symposia and meetings concerned with the polar research in the past year. Topics include drilling programs, sea ice and icebergs, and mineral deposits. (MA)