PHYSICAL GEOLOGY: EXPLORING THE EARTH, Sixth Edition, doesn't just explain physical geology and its processes; it places that knowledge within the context of human experience by consistently emphasizing relevance, resources, and the environment. With this edition, the authors seek to answer two central questions, "How does the planet work?" and "Why is this important to know?"

By discussing the unifying theory of plate tectonics in detail early in the text, the authors are able to link diverse material by this common thread, providing a global perspective of Earth and allowing students to recognize seemingly unrelated geologic phenomena as a continuum of interrelated events within a complete planetary system.

In addition to providing students with an understanding of geology and its processes, the authors consistently demonstrate how geology relates to the human experience. By asking the question "What would you do?" throughout the text, students are encouraged to explore their reactions to particular situations. New "Geology in Your Life" sections address relevant student concerns, particularly in the areas of environment and energy. And a new penultimate chapter on Resources and the Fate of the Earth ties together many of the concepts of particular interest to students.

This edition is fully integrated with the online student tutorial system Physical GeologyNow (TM). Physical GeologyNow uses a series of chapter-specific diagnostic tests to build a personalized learning plan for each student, allowing students to focus their study time on specific areas of weaknesses. Each personalized learning plan directs students to specific chapter sections and concept-driven multimedia tutorials designed to augment their understanding.