They look at the earth's crust, internal composition, and waters. They are also known as geological scientists or geoscientists. They identify and examine rocks and minerals, land formations, and fossils. They study information collected by satellites. They also do geological surveys.
Geologists use instruments to measure the earth's gravity and magnetic field.
They may use the data they collect to figure out if sites are suitable for construction. They draw maps and use their knowledge of chemistry, physics, math, and biology to analyze information and write reports. They use computers to store and process data and to write papers. Many geologists may search for oil, natural gas, minerals, and groundwater. Geologists and geophysicists play an important role in preserving and cleaning up the environment.