Most of the Earth sciences make use of observations on a global scale, and for this reason many problems in the Earth sciences could be undertaken only when exploration of the Earth's surface was well advanced. In this connection great use has been made of satellite observations. Geology embraces a number of sciences. Among these is geomorphology, the study of the nature, origin, and processes of change of landforms such as the rising and subsiding of continents and mountains. Geophysics is concerned with the study of the physical phenomena of the Earth such as its magnetic field, the flow of heat from the interior, and the study of gravity, including tides.
Seismology is the science of earthquakes.
Geochemistry studies the chemical composition of the Earth and the laws governing the distribution of elements within the Earth. Meteorology, the study of the atmosphere, particularly for forecasting weather, can be considered as the branch of atmospheric physics concerned with the behavior and properties of the Earth's atmosphere. Satellite observations have proved of great use in gathering meteorological data, and powerful computers are employed to analyze the great quantities of data so gathered. Climatology, the study of past and present climates, is concerned with longer variations than those investigated by meteorologists and is now proving of practical importance in indicating the possible future growth of deserts and glaciated areas. Oceanography, the study of seas and oceans, began as an aid to navigation and fishing.