Shaping a nation : a geology of Australia / Richard Blewett, chief editor.

Format:

Book

Contributor:

Blewett, Richard, editor.

Language:

English

Subjects (All):

Geology--Australia.

Geology.

Historical geology--Australia.

Historical geology.

Geology, Economic--Australia.

Geology, Economic.

Paleontology--Australia.

Paleontology.

Physical Description:

1 online resource (iii, 571 pages) : illustrations

Edition:

First edition.

Place of Publication:

Canberra, ACT : ANU Press, [2012]

Summary:

"Shaping a Nation: A Geology of Australia" is the story of a continent's geological evolution as seen through the lens of human impacts. Exploring the geology, resources and landscapes of Australia, the book reveals how these have helped to shape this nation's society, environment and wealth. Presented in a refreshingly non-linear format, the book summarizes much of what we know about this country's geological history, discussing the fossil record and evolution of life across the continent, describing its mineral and energy reserves, and revealing the significance of its coastal and groundwater systems. The book also explores some of the challenges and opportunities presented by Australia's rich geological heritage, and outlines the issues they present in Australian society today. Based on much of the latest science, the book reveals Australia's expertise in the geosciences and reinforces the vital role they play in informing its present and future development. In presenting the latest geoscientific knowledge, this text is vividly illustrated by technical drawings and figures and accompanied by stunning photography that reveals the extraordinary beauty of Australia's geology and landscapes. For the avid reader, an accompanying DVD-video disc hosts extensive appendices, including supplementary reading and reference material, maps, movies and an interactive 3D model showcasing many geoscience datasets.

Contents:

Australia and the Australian people

Australia in time and space

Living Australia

Out of Gondwana

Old, flat and red : Australia's distinctive landscape

Living on the edge : waterfront views

Groundwater : lifeblood of the continent

Foundations of wealth : Australia's major mineral provinces

Sustaining Australia's wealth : economic growth from a stable base

Deep heat : Australia's energy future?

Advance Australia fair.

Notes:

Description based on publisher supplied metadata and other sources.

Description based on print version record.

Includes bibliographical references and index.

ISBN:

9781921862823

1921862823