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Call for questions: GEOLOGY! (Patreon)

Published:
2022-09-09 01:40:39
Imported:
2026-06

Content

Rocks. We're finally doing it. Leave questions below and we will cover as much ground as we can. 

Heck yeah,

Ward

Comments

Jessie Dragon

What’s the best way or places to find crystals or fun rocks in the wild?

Amy Narimatsu

What's the best geology joke/pun?

Mia Manzer

Rocks why am I so obsessed with them why do I love them

RJ Doidge

Just wanna say you rock Dadward. That’s it 😘

Talia Dunyak

Why is salt the only tasty rock?

Amanda Spinosa

What’s your favorite rock? You can only choose one.

Hannah Reilly

What’s your favorite kind of rock?

Lizzy Carr

Every time my fiancé goes on a camping trip he brings me back a rock he found and it makes me super super happy. Is there any deep-seated psychological reason for humans to be excited about rocks or am I just nuts lmao

Julia Fisher

Most overrated and/or underrated rocks

Tinnedfishfanatic

What’s the weirdest rock?!? I mean… there’s gotta be one that comes to mind

Jen A.

What is the most common kind of rock? What about the least commom amount??

Delaney

I'm interested in searching for cool rocks, gems, and geodes. Is keeping rock souvenirs okay for the planet? And if so, do you have any advice for newbies?

Deacon Raid

What is the best tasting rock?

Kaylee Dyer

Please ask the ologist their favorite rock, and I hope they absolutely GUSH about it

L. Wink

Aside from inside animal stomachs…where is the weirdest place to find rocks?

CoffeeLeaf90

First time question asker - Why are humans fascinated with rocks? Why when we see a cool rock, like cow, we have to announce it? 😂

Max Newman

My aunt and I love using crystals as focus points for good energy. I have a citrine stone I wear around my neck for creative energy, for example. Is there science behind the meanings of different crystals and their various spiritual uses?

Joe Mueller

How do rocks get their size classification. Ie what makes a pebble, a rock, a bolder?

Anna Thompson

Are canyons like the grand canyon still getting deeper?

Nancy Kay Clark

Explain the Giant's Causeway. How was it formed?

Jules Kingsland

Also what do rocks do for the planet 🌎 what would we do if rock did not Exist

Elektra

What is the weirdest legend that centers on a rock or rocks in general?

Jeffrey Bradshaw

How does the sediment in sedimentary rock stick together?

Jessi B

I am one of those women who consistently collect rocks where ever I go, but is there a situation or place where is it not ok for me to take a rock?

Harper

Why do geologists lick rocks? How are those sparkly rock eggs of magic we call geodes formed? 🤩

Bex

What’s the least common color in rocks? And what’s your favorite rock(poddad’s fave too if she has one!)

Elisè Noszko

first time question asker: ummm.... how does sand get there...?

Anna Thompson

What's your favorite place to view stratification?

Delaney

I cannot waaaaait for this episode!! What is their favorite rock to look at under a microscope?

Becks Woodruff

Is the venn diagram of Ologites and People Who Collected Cool Rocks at Recess as Kids... a circle?

Aminah

Why are rocks so damn cool? My garage is full of cool rocks/minerals and fossils.

Katie King

What is the most rare mineral or rock on earth?

Delaney

why does paper beat rock?

Kelly Semon

When I was in grade school all behind the playground was red clay and quartz and no matter what our teachers tried to stop us, me and my friends lugged home backpacks full of the stuff like Daily! Now anytime I see red clay I start looking around for quartz. Are there any commonly found “backyard” rocks I could look for with my students now that I work at schools? (I’m in Eastern NC if that helps) ~I’ve had many questions asked but my name has never been pronounced right it’s pronounced Semón~

Jackie

What’s the coolest use of satellites in geology?

Delaney

oh this is so interesting, and i would love to know too

Raegan Robertson

How many rocks have you licked? Are there other rocks that taste like something other than dirt or salt?

Meredith Snowlander

In your opinion, why is sexism and racism so prevalent within the field of geology? What do you do to combat white supremacy within the field?

Morgan

Are there minerals that are just so weird they barely count as minerals? Also why are rocks so pretty?

Paul Smith

Can you unpack why the 1st and 2nd snowball earth theory is so divisive?

Katie King

what is the best named mineral or rock (in your opinion)? Any with strange names or odd stories?

Meredith Snowlander

What’s the worst thing a driller has ever done to you?

Dantooine

Does limestone really attract spirit and paranormal activity?

Bex

(First time question asker!)

Cale Gibson

What is your opinion on fracking

Kelly Semon

Oh another question - is there any reason I shouldn’t buy those tumbled rocks from tourist shops / witch shops? I’ve got a HUGE collection from getting them constantly in childhood but now I wonder if they’re potentially problematic in their sourcing… - Kelly Semón

Morgan

Conversely, are there any substances that are almost minerals but don't qualify for one reason or another?

Brie

what’s the tastiest rock aside from salt

Jackie

If you could (by magic) suddenly uplift rocks of any age from anywhere on earth where would it be, and what age rocks?

Nina Giacobbe

Why am I obsessed with them? My husband doesn't get it but they're just...so cool. WHY ARE THEY SO COOL

Katie King

With space exploration and other planets being visited, are there likely to be other methods of forming rocks other than igneus, sedimentary, and metamorphic out there?

Delaney

what is it that makes some rocks have sparkles?

Jackie

Why is oceanic crust so fricking young?

Alice Rubin

what can geology tell us about climate change?

Christina

Lonnnnnnnnnggg time listener (from the very first episode) and first time question asker: What function/role do rocks have on the earth? What would happen if we didn't have them?

Alice Rubin

How does underground carbon sequestration work? Is there anyplace safe enough to store nuclear waste (a la Yucca Mountain)?

abbey jo

malachite. we love. why green? what the lines and bubbles about. (also why do most stones have lines of color confined in the same type of rock) also why are rocks the fkn coolest?

Alice Rubin

What's the rarest geologic feature that all geologists want to find?

Kieran C.

Do you find yourself looking at stratification in road cuts as you drive by? (Love to drive through AR and see the folding of the geology of the Ozarks)

Aeriel Belk

PLEASE tell SCHMITTY I said hi!

Aeriel Belk

SCHMITTY how often do you recommend you lick rocks?

Nina Katz-Christy

(First time question asker) why are some rocks considered to be so much more valuable than others? Also, what even is a rock?

Elizabeth Rich

What's the difference between a rock and a stone

Paul Smith

What are your thoughts on contemporary rocks like plastiglomerate? At what point does loose trash become rock?

Paul Smith

Idk what they'll say, but you breccia it'll be a good one

Ted Hamilton

How did the Appalachian Mountains form and why aren't they continuing to form? How was that active but now it's not? Also are they really the same mountains as the ones on other continents?

Brandon

I just moved from the east coast to the west coast for a PhD program and I drove: one of the signs I saw was about crossing the intercontinental divide: what exactly is that and why is it important?

Joe Porfido

What makes crystals transparent?

Chris Curious

Where do pudding stones come from?

Aeriel Belk

What rock would a geologist choose for the best jewelry?

Delaney

what exactly is bedrock? is it so sturdy just because it is dense?

Sara Crocker

Love the podcast! First time questioner. I live in Panama next to a volcano that, according to its history, is about 200 years past when it should be erupting again. Why the delay and How worried should I be?

Will

Do the same rules/principles of geology apply on other planets or is there something fundamentally different about Earth rocks?

Will

What’s the difference between rocks and gems?

Sara Edgar

Is there a different between rocks, crystals and stones? Should we be worried about where all of these different stores are getting their rocks?

Amy Vanko

I could, of course, look this up myself, but this is my first chance as a new patron and I’m excited to ask a question!! How/Why do cairns cause environmental harm? Besides lava, are there places where new rock is being generated? It seems like anything on the surface is being eroded instead, so is it reforming underneath and turning over only in events like earthquakes and volcanic eruptions? Would that reset carbon dating? Making new baby rocks? I assume you’ll ask for the definition of a rock, but just in case… if they’re all made of different minerals, what are the features they have in common that mean “rock”? Which museum has the best collection of rocks? I’m in Boston and the Harvard Museum of Natural History impressed me, but is it just child’s play??

Megan Johnson-Eiber

What is the weirdest thing you’ve done to identify a rock? I definitely witnessed one of my college friends licking a rock to identify it at least once (shout out Krystle!)

Aeriel Belk

What impacts do ice ages have on rocks?

Chris Love

What is general lifespan of earth's crust? As in how often does it get recycled through the mantle and do the various minerals separate causing the heavier ones like iron to sink down further into the planet and become effectively lost to us on the surface.

Cate Muenker

I can never figure out igneous vs metamorphic rocks… how do you tell the difference? Also, do those rock identifier apps really work? Which one is the best?

Melanie Lee

Is there a way to “lightly” be into geology? I’d love to learn more but no time for another degree !

Jim Bartholomew

Has plate tectonics always been in action or was it different on the early earth?

Buhbrie

I love rocks!! Why do you (and I) find them so fascinating? What's your favorite rock/mineral? What do you find to be the most interesting recent discovery?

Jim Bartholomew

Why is Venus geology so different than earths?

Aeriel Belk

How would you describe the consistency of the earths outer core?

Jim Bartholomew

Is mars really geologically dead? Mars quakes?

Julie Paez

Why do people insist that crystals have "healing powers"?

Kelsy Simpson

What kind of gemstone is the best for rings?

megan wedal

from one professional geologist to another, what is objectively the best rock and why is it garnet mica schist?

Diana Teeter

My husband wants to know: what is your favorite rock pun?

Aeriel Belk

Can fossils form in igneous rock?

Jim Bartholomew

When might the poles flip north and south again?

Aeriel Belk

Also, you can tell how excited I am every time I talk to schmitty because my phone autocorrects it to all caps lol

Will

How does more dirt get piled on top of the Earth’s surface constantly to bury previous layers that we eventually dig up to study the past? It seems as though dirt should be swept (by wind, people/animals, water, etc.) away rather than being laid down.

Julie Paez

What's happening with opal? Is it a mineral, a gemstone, crystal?????

Sophie Lyons

Hey! It’s that kid who got scoliosis carrying rocks around in their school bag. Saw this thing about how bad stacking rocks is for ground cover. Is it true we shouldn’t make rock mounds when hiking? Also, what’s the weirdest rock formation you’ve witnessed? Thanks! (ps first time question asker 😊)

megan wedal

also how many embarrassing scars do you have from falling down tall outcrops :/

Tobie Tobias

what keeps the (dirt?) that makes up rocks together?

Gina Maday

Yesssss! I’ve ALWAYS wondered this!

Jess Loeffler

LETS GO! How many rocks/minerals are fluorescent? And how/why are they? I understand bioluminescence, but rocks don't evolve so it's not like there's a biological reason for the way they are. They're just the way they are. Which is sending me down a bit of a spiral because they're the reason everything is the way that it is then? And that's just because???

G.Sil

As a person with a geography degree, I can't tell you how many times I get mistaken for a geologist (and asked about my favorite rock, etc.) so I have to ask do you ever get mistaken for a geographer?

Matt Thompson

How the heck did the hexagonal basalt rocks form in Iceland and Giants Causeway?

Cat Baklarz

1. What is the proper way to look for a palm-sized fossil Rock in an area where you know there are possibly fossil rocks and is this an okay thing to do? 2. Why is the quartz we found in San Pedro along the California coastal cliffs crumbly?? Shouldn't it be one big crystal thingy? 3. How do we get ethical crystals? 4. Did you believe in bra crystal energies?

Erika Storvick

(First time question asker, so naturally I have a few) why is "rocks for jocks" a thing? What's the secret to a perfect cairn? How can there be so much geologic variation within a small area? (limestone to granite, etc )

Mendestria Provost

I'm always surprised when geologists find new types of rock and/or crystal. How many mines and/or types of rock do geologists predict are left to find?

Lorri Fishman

I love collecting rocks from wherever I am. My first memory of learning geology is 5th grade! But, why is there a stigma that geology is considered an easy college course: “rocks for jocks” was its pet name at Indiana University back in the 80s?

Matt Thompson

What is the difference between a mineral and a gem?

Ruby Bray

Can rock melt? Why rock melt?

Ruby Bray

Why are pet rocks a thing

Sonjabird

Why are some fossils rocks while others are just impressions on rocks? For example petrified wood and a leaf imprint.

art_by_di

What is the difference between a rock, mineral and crystal? Are they all the same but different?

Bonnie Detwiller

I've always wanted to find a fossil (be it vegetation or Squidwards extinct cousin) in a rock, but always fail. What kind of rocks should I look out for that I could crack into like nature's version of a Kinder egg?

Michelle Dempsey

The rocks off the Oregon coast, like haystack rock etc. What's their deal?

Ayshia Yaeger

Hell yeah rocks! Are we in danger of any types of rocks going extinct?? I'm assuming they're all nonrenewable resources, so would we ever see the last of any type of rock? "Asia" they/them!

Jenna Congdon

I'm just here to say that when I was a kid I had a rock collection, and every so often I'd lay all my rocks out in the driveway and give them a "bath" with the hose, just to admire their shinyness. I was a cool kid, obviously. No question. Just here to say I still think rocks are cool.

Keri

First time question asker: how can you tell from which era the rock belongs and how old it is?

Greg Walloch

When did crystals become associated with healing? I was just surprised to Google that it was a loooong time ago. Are these rocks actually doing anything? Why do you think people have a special feeling about them?

CJ Lucke

Someone told me they bought an old gold mine. Could you mine it or bring tourists to it? Seems like a big liability

Gina Woolsey

Do you often get people pointing out interesting rock formations on the roadside and asking you how they formed? And if so, how often can you answer?

Emmalee Jones

Was just reading the Wikipedia page on geology and learned about the 𝒾𝓃𝓉𝒾𝓂𝒶𝓉𝑒 𝒸𝑜𝓊𝓅𝓁𝒾𝓃𝑔 of plate tectonics and the convection of Earth’s mantle. Further down the page there’s also a section about ‘dating methods’. I don’t really have a question, I’d just like to express my delight and appreciation for geology’s framing of the planet as one big living, breathing (sometimes squirting!), horny rock sack.

Gina Woolsey

Space rocks are cool. What's some of the coolest things found via space rocks, either ones that have landed to earth or ones still in space?

Amber Althoff

No question at all just wanted to shout out my high school geology teacher that made me fall in love with rocks!

Sarah king

Yellowstone! Is that in geology? Do you know when it’s gonna blow? What about all the sulfure rocks there?

Sarah king

This might be paleontology… but how the heck do Dino footprints stay so long in rock

Gina Woolsey

I think that in another life I could have been a geology major. In that other life, what would be my main job prospects? Working for big oil, academia, or the US geological survey?

Sarah king

Is there a future in asteroid mining??

Becks Woodruff

What are the most ridiculous rock names?! (Boy howdy there are some doozies! 👀)

justusbears

Can different categories of rocks (metamorphic, sedimentary, igneous, etc) move from one category to another under the right circumstances?

ConnieConnieBoBonnie

What is the most surprising or unexpected geological find you ever encountered? Something that made you say, “ what in the Sam Hill is that doing here?!”

Mykenzie King

What the heck is carbon dating and how do we know how old rocks are? It seems like magic.

Leah Anderson

What is the deal with chert?! Not just why does it have like 5 different spellings, but why is it so hard and why does it so few (or such tiny) fossils in it?

Amy Narimatsu

Wow those both were very gneiss, y'all have your schist together

megan wedal

short answer: pretty shiny rock make crow brain happy :D long answer: it's one of those rocks that's kind of like finding a secret message hidden somewhere!! it can help you understand a lot about the history & geologic processes that occurred in a location, like mountain building, or crazy temperature changes! plus it's sort of a puzzle, since garnet mica schists can form from a BUNCH of different 'parent' rocks - sort of like when you leave a Thanksgiving turkey AND rolls in the oven for too long and they both turn into similar sad hard little lumps </3 (also my last name is pronounced like "weedle" like the pokemon)

Amy Salley

Where are the oldest exposed rocks on earth?

Jeanette Moss McCurdy

Ooh pick me, pick me! First time question asker, long time listener. Is it true that some geodes have uranium in them and that’s why they fluoresce under black light?

Amy Salley

Where do all the pebbles in my shoe come from originally if I'm in Atlanta, Georgia?

V.E. Griffith

The all-time NSFW favorite is cummingtonite.

Amy Salley

Please explain basin and range I never understood

Amy Salley

Did all the granite in Yosemite used to be underground?

V.E. Griffith

Should I finish my degree? I love earth sciences but ran out of money about a decade ago and would have to retake all the sciencey and math stuff again. And what's with requiring Calculus III for a BS?

Scott Sheldon

Ok, let’s settle it once and for all…is it “dirt” or “soil” since whatever it is called is ground up rocks? I’ve had professors (environmental science major) who say it’s only one or the other and not interchangeable but who aren’t geologists.

Between Dumplings

I'm curious about rocks as storytellers: - they tell us about human history - see e.g. Moai - I think they tell us about the movement of tectonic plates? - how different is volcanic rock is from the stones we find around here in the White Mountains?

Amy jane Joy

Ftqa - I've seen t-shirts and stuff with the phrase "subduction leads to orogeny" on them. Is there a really clever aspect to this that I'm not getting or is the whole joke that it sounds kinda dirty? See what I did there? Dirty?

Alyssa Elliott

Explain moss agates… it looks like moss, but it’s not moss? What gives?

sidney

What's the coolest place to vacation as a geologist?

Jennifer McDavid

First time question asker! My kids (2 and 6) and I LOVE listening every week! What the hell is carbon dating? How does it work? And how do we know that rock over there is 1,000,000 years old? P.S. my 6-year-old spouts facts from your show all over the place, and my 2-year-old recognizes your intro music and starts yelling "Ologies! Ologies! Mama!" any time she hears it. Their favorite episodes are the Ursinology episodes.

Abby Cox

Such a good question! Like if we overmine a rock?! +1 for Ayshia’s question!

Anna Guzman

Is global warming affecting rocks and stuff? How?

Amy Graham

I grew up in the northeast and had always been told that big boulders were only there because they were carried by glaciers. How?! How far did they travel?? How big of an impact have glaciers had on the composition of our landscapes when it comes to rocks?

Gina Woolsey

I remember reading a long time ago that Australia hasn't had a lot of geologic uplift or turnover and therefore the soil is drained of nutrients and that's why it has poor farming. Is that true, and if so is there any reason why? Is the tectonic plate just chilling there?

Abby Cox

It’s soooooo weeeiiiirrrrdddddd!!

E-Veh-Lease Sanchez

Hola! Pet rocks. How did that fad start? And what’s up with geodes? Are they rocks? Crystals? Both? Thx

Radha Vakharia

How does basalt sometimes form into hexagons naturally?

Erin Johnston

First time question asker! As a child of two geologists who never listened to what their parents told them or tried to show them… what is Ichnology? And how does it related to geology and Mount Everest? And what are the origins of Amethyst? Xo thanks!!

Robin Stumbo

not much of a hard-hitting question, but what is your BEST geology pun/joke?

Chelle Curulla

I grew up on a property covered in mima mounds, they are so rad. I have heard many different theories, what is your opinion on what caused them and what is your opinion on preserving/protecting them?

Aeriel Belk

I wanna make sure Schmitty gets a chance to shine lol

alex suarez

What's up with petrified wood?!?! Wood? Rock? I need answers

Emily R

Is there a sub-science in geology studying rocks from or on other planets? And on that note, is there anything about Earth rocks that's super unique compared to our near planetary neighbors?

Kiki’s Delivery Service

Ok… sand. Rocks? Lil baby rocks? Rock debris?? Rock composite parts??? And why does smushed sand sometimes make more rock but other time make glass?

Patrick W

People keep joking about geologists licking rocks but... you don't, actually, right? RIGHT?!

Kimberly Talbert

Hey! Fellow geologist and first time question asker! (Long time listener). Ophiolites - explain them and are there any great spots in the US to see them? Any ideas on how humans can become more eco-conscious and morally conscious about mining raw materials, such as crystals or metals? Not so sure about the eco footprint/morality for the raw materials needed for EV batteries and no one really talks about it.

Raven Wilbur

is glass considered a rock if its solidified sand? is it sand? help?

Dory A Hammersley

1: What do we know about the deep crust? I have heard it is surprisingly poorly understood. Can you explain why, and what we do know? Can you explain what the asthenosphere is, and how it works? 2: I have heard that the mantle is not as liquidy (with convection currents) as I was led to believe in my high school geology class. WHAT EVEN IS THE MANTLE? Is it all magma? 3: Would a proto-planetary chunk, like the asteroid Psyche is hypothesized to be, have structure and layers like a full planet does? What are they made of? Are there people studying this?

Nicole Kleinman

What’s something about rocks that most people don’t know?

GeoKrissy

From one geologist to another, where’s the best road cutting you’ve seen that’s worth stopping to look at, and what makes it interesting? I tell people I have a hi vis vest in my car for changing car tyres but it’s really for stopping at road cuttings to take a look :)

Dee Dee

Excerpt from Mary Oliver's poem called Do stones feel? Do stones feel? Do they love their life? Or does their patience drown out everything else?

Lisa Vehrs

Hi! First time question asker, here! Why does the soft water of the limestone lake at my cottage make my hair so much softer than the "city" water at home, which comes out of a river that feeds the same lake from an adjacent limestone lake? What is it about limestone that makes water "soft"? What magic does limestone possess?

Chris Lipford

FTQA What’s the biggest or most common false “fact” or misconception about geology that you’ve encountered? (Think: “The Indians welcomed the pilgrims and they shared a meal we now call Thanksgiving!”)

Anastasia Doherty

Why do we like to collect them, hold them +/or keep them in jars? Is there some science behind this attraction?

Kimberly Talbert

Do you have a favorite geologic time period? Mine is the Devonian because of all the odd critters - specially Tiktaalik and Dunkleosteus.

Nikademus Cuellar

Volcanology was the episode that brought me in to ologies and I'm very excited for this episode! Are there any structures or formations either buried or overgrown that you wish were as easy to see as the richat structure?

Alaina Cruson

How did we first discover how gems/diamonds/etc were formed, and why do you think humans value them so much?

Miriya

Tell me about naica crystal cave please! - Miriya (pronounced meer ee uh)

Liz Cleveland

I had a sister who studied geology what does chewing rocks tell you?

Jodi Pierce

What is the oldest rock ever found? Was it from our planet? What is your favorite rock and why?

Jodi Pierce

What gems/crystals should I avoid purchasing because of how they are dug /processed?

Jodi Pierce

Any tips for NOT filling my entire house with rocks!? Asking for my spouse. 😂

Justin Saucedo

What kind of bread goes well with stone soup?

Jodi Pierce

How big is the world’s largest geode?

Justin Saucedo

Is there an official rock size hierarchy? Pebble, stone, rock, boulder?

Adam Foote

What's the difference between minerals and rocks?

LISA TAYLOR

what is often overlooked when out and about, like something that would blow a persons mind if they knew they were walking on/sitting on/in the presence of some sort of rock?

Simon Bonisteel

What's your favourite rock? What's your favourite mineral? I look forward to your next podcast, I wish it was cummingtonite.

Lee T.

Can we talk Appalachia? I learned in college that our mountains are among the oldest in the world. On one geology field trip, our professor pulled into a Badcock furniture store in Murphy, NC and told us that the exposed rock behind the store was 1 billion years old - one of the oldest exposed rock faces in the world (I think… college was 15 years ago…). Is it true that the Appalachian range is the oldest in the world? How do geologists figure that out? Also what’s up with the great unconformity in the Grand Canyon?

Lainie McKeating

I'm a metalsmith/jewelry artist and some of my customers believe strongly in special types of energy from rocks and crystals. They are great customers ❤️ but, I personally tend to think along the science side of things - to each their own, right? Is there any truth to crystals and stones having energy that humans can feel?

Lee T.

Also want to understand the hardness scale for diamonds and how those sparkly bastards actually come to be.

Lee T.

The Missoula floods. Please talk about this insane natural phenomenon. Lake Alison in the willamette valley. Boulders from Canada have been found there. Epic.

Martha Kathryn Smith

What is their official opinion on pet rocks? Do they have any?

Celena Hsiung

I've heard that some colored minerals' color can fade over time--why is that and what creates the color in the first place? Is there actual pigment or is it the crystal structure? Or does it depend on the mineral?

Maria Delgado Gomez

I studied geology and ran into this stereotype of "rocks 4 jocks" when in reality it takes tough math, physics, and chemistry classes, plus field art skills, and political savvy on top of all the geo. Classes because there's so many applications. It's also ahard field to get into because it can get so political (ie. hydrogeology, responsible mining, remediation, oil, etc.) Also, you're studying the earth but when you get out and try to find a job the most well paid gigs are in mines and oil fields and at least for me, I want to know if most geologists feel conflicted like I did.

Morgan Casey

Top 5 places to look at cool rocks?

Gwen Kelly

Why does Geology have so many dirty jokes? 🫣 also what defines how rocks are classified? I’m curious if rock types are really well delineated or if the boundaries blur? Is classification debated in geology like phylogeny is debated in biology? Like whether two animals really the same species and different subspecies? Are geologists debating whether chert and chalcedony are really the same or different? Like carnelian and onyx and chalcedony, jasper, and agate, they’re like basically the same thing? Are those classifications “real” or are they essentially folk taxonomies?

Lee T.

And fossils! PleAse discuss fossils 🙏

Ami DuCre (Amy doo-kray)

How can you tell which rocks have crystals or fossils inside? And how do I crack 'em open to get to these treasures?

Kristen

How do rock formations happen off of the coast? Is it erosion from all the salt water, or did they break off of

Ashley Green

Okay, so what exactly is a rock?? What makes them different from minerals? Can minerals be called rocks? Are crystals rocks??

Miranda Panda

Where is the best place to bury my body so I become a fossil after I die? (I'm currently alive and located in Washington State)

Pascal Perron

I just hope when you ask what is the hardest thing about their job, they answer “diamonds”

Miranda Panda

Did you see that news story about the, "large boulder the size of a small boulder" on the side of a road?

Brian

Super interested in the geology of the Colorado plateau and how it happened! And aren’t the Appalachian mountains the same mountain range as the Scottish highlands?

Shai Clai

Why the fascination with collecting rocks? Pockets full, gardens, creek stomping.. What is it with the human desire to collect?

Stephen Woo

How do we know if a rock is from space?

Stephen Woo

How do those honeycomb shaped pillars form like the Giant's Causeway?

Stephen Woo

What's your favourite rock formation?

Alice Rubin

I live in western Washington. Should I be worried about "the big one"? There was a large quake very close to where I live in the early 2000s . I'm kind of in denial and preparing for it seems kind of futile. If it's that big, won't my emergency be buried in the rubble of my home? What good is it then?! Can this be one less thing to give me anxiety? lol!

Alice Rubin

all rocks are from space. technically we are also from space...

Abi Dardas

(First time question asker) What effects do you think globalization and rockhounding will have on future geology studies? Meaning, we as humans are mixing up the natural order of history by taking “page 89” of the story across the world after a vacation and then keep them privately in our home. How much do geologists focus on small rocks in an area vs the giant rock structures they originate from? Is there a way we can more ethically collect rocks for future geologists and future generations generally? (Coming from someone who looooves to sit and look at and organize colorful rocks)

Claire Irvine

Is it true that you sometimes bite the rock to figure out what species it is?

Catherine Griffith

Hi from Australia- I am a long time rock collector, but what am I collecting? I would love to ID some of the types of rocks I find? What is a good resource?

Claire Irvine

Why is Lizard Peninsular in the UK so weird and wonderful? What can it tell us about the earth?

Hannah Matousek

I recently spent some time in Ireland and I know there is some cool stuff about the Burren region in the west of Ireland… do you know anything about this area? Cuz I think the world needs to know :)

HB

Why do the Faroe Islands and Shetland have such different characteristics, despite both being beautiful mountainous/hilly islands in (as far as I can tell) the same tectonic plate? Or, how did they both form in general and how did their shapes and textures come to be? Thanks!! Also, anything about plutons in the Appalachian mountains is appreciated at any point :)

Jona

Weirdest mineral on our planet?

Mohammed Fakhro

Okay so I read there’s a new type of rock that consists of plastics called plastiglomerates, and my questions are a) how does this happen? and b) what does this mean in the larger scheme of things? Also, eek!

Radha Vakharia

Please talk about the geology in Minecraft.

Evan Davis

Are there any edible rocks?

Evan Davis

What makes some rocks more valuable than others?

BENJAMIN

Geology seems like a big deal!! My question is: how do you think chocolate candy rocks look? Did they do a good job?

Cassafrass

Are there any rocks made of organic matter? Or are all rocks inorganic?

Miranda Buckley

What’s the most hilarious geological memory aid/ mnemonic/ acronym you know?

Cassafrass

Most important question: Alie, why do you rock so much!?!?

Cassafrass

Another one: what’s with the Island of Staffa being all hexagons?

Jessica Klein

First time question asker from Reno:) What are your thoughts on asteroid impacts on one side of the earth being the cause of volcanism on its antipode? ie. the relation of the Chixculub crater and the preceding increase in activity at the Deccan traps leading to the P-T mass extinction? Love the show, please do this until you are old and we can hear the sound of a rocking chair in the background, or what ever old people sit on in the future. K bye.

Gordon Haas

First-time Question Asker: Which rocks should people avoid? Radioactive, like uraninite or pitchblende, heavy metal ores like arsenopyrite or cinnabar, or something else?

Miriam

What's the connection between geology and water availability in a region?

Dave Schuster

If the Grand Canyon was creatdd we thru water and erosion what aren’t there many grand canyons throughout the world?

Kata Zarándy

How old are rocks? How do we know that granite is older than loess?

Bex W.

Why is slate so strange and crumbly and cool?

Kata Zarándy

Why are tectonic plates moving on Earth but not on Mars?

Kata Zarándy

Are there still blank spots on the world's map?

kexi

Taking rocks/sand als souvenirs frim vacation - not much of a deal or is it a problem?

Batman Flight

Is cummingtonite the best name of all the geological terms?

Kristen Rosenblum

Rockhounding question- is it ok to go rockhounding? what should I try to avoid when looking for rocks? What are some of the best rocks you have found?

Batman Flight

I had a geologist friend who used to lick rocks to test them. Do you do that too and if so has it ever gone horribly wrong?

Batman Flight

What are the softest and hardest rock types?

Batman Flight

Have you ever got any geological puns into a paper you've written?

Euan Munro

I don't claim to know much about geology (which is embarrassing seeing I live in Edinburgh). One thing that struck me when on a road trip from Slovenia down through Croatia was that it was limestone that whole way. However in Scotland there are all sorts (including Lewisian gneiss which is a great name!). Why do some places have such diversity and some don't?

Shannon Sartain

Ftqa (and a geologist/hydrologist!). The great unconformity: why did it happen? How did we find out about it/where was it first discovered? Where is the gap in time the shortest?

Amber

How many rocks have you licked out in the field?I remember when I was in geology lab in college we had to lick rocks (precovid) to tell if they were salty or not and curious if taste plays any big rolls in rock identification these days.

Corrie Francis Parks

ftqa (and I have SO many on this topic!): Where do you even start as an amateur geology fan that never took rocks for jocks? As in, you're out there hiking and you see these amazing wavy layers in cliffs, or you see a pile of rocks and some are green and some are yellow and some are red and some are gray... how do you get to the point where you can say, "well, this is slate, and this is schist, and this is shale..."

Corrie Francis Parks

Also, can we at some point get a sub-ologies on sedimentology?? Sand!!

Specs Owl

Do you have any gneiss geology puns? What is so special/significant about Hutton's Unconformity? Could you explain the different types of rock collectors, like jackdaw? Is it just a coincidence that there's an Andrew Alden Drive in Colorado, and next to it there are streets named after rocks like moonstone, onyx, emerald, sapphire, etc?

Mira Simantov

YESSS been praying for this one!!! My question is: what is your favourite mineral/rock type?

Super_Sara

How many different types of rock do volcanic eruptions make? I can think of basalt, obsidian and pumice. How does pumice get made? Also how much do you love Minecraft for teaching the basics of geology?

geo.sassie

YES GEOLOGY!!!!!!!! Fellow geologist here, and the favourite question I loooove getting asked is always: What's your favourite geological site/formation that everyone should know about?? (It probably changes annually but still!)

M W

If a rock is made from only one mineral, why is it a rock and not a mineral?

Jeanette-o-saur

Geo-club!!! I second this question. What are the absolute coolest places that I might not know I need to visit?! Geo-tourism is my fave!

Ron Dagdag

can Martian Geologists find clues about life on Mars?

Jeanette-o-saur

Fellow geo Q's: What is the coolest thing you've learned in the past couple of years that made you go 'holy poopballs I had no idea?! How did I not find out about this sooner?!" When it comes to the tension between resource extraction and the environment, what gives you hope that we're gonna be ok? People, technologies, anything. Do you have any thoughts on how to repair relationships between the public and resource industries like nuclear energy? I worry that we (society) hold ourselves back because we're too scared to eff up again.

Jeanette-o-saur

Make friends with geologists! We will talk about rocks through the whoooollle hike (ok, and mushrooms, and trees, and snacks)

Jeanette-o-saur

Where was the best outcrop nap you've ever taken? 🧐😁

Hryfna

Is it possible to make synthetic obsidian that has the same properties as real obsidian, for example sharpness so fine it can be used to reduce the trauma of heart surgery?

Jeanette-o-saur

As a geologist partnered with a mining engineer, I recommend a really cool display case for the best rocks (no duplicates) and working rock gardening into your landscape for the rest 😅 Moving also makes you realize just how many heavy rocks you own, but that may not be an option for everyone

gg

What about the Moon? Axios Space sent this on 9/6:. When you look at the Moon, you're looking at not just a neighbor in space, but kind of an extension of the Earth," NASA Moon scientist Noah Petro tells Axios. "I like to kind of glibly think of the Moon as the eighth continent of the Earth." Apparently a big metal slammed into Earth and moved topsoil into space; congealed; is a source of hydrogen and craters that we don't have here.

Drew Kissinger

When rocks spend years underwater, do they become saturated inside, or are they dry?

Emily

Why do geologists lick rocks?

Jodi Pierce

We have moved my favorite rocks across the US and up into Canada. The look on my helpers’ faces when they ask, “what’s in this, Rocks!?” and the answer is yes. 😂

Carsyn

As a fellow geologist why do you think so many people have such a low perception of geology? People seem to write it off as a science or just as boring, especially in popular media. How do you think we can improve the public perception of geology?

Ronja

Why is our brain like “oooooh shiny, better put it in my pocket” when we see a pretty rock? I have been collecting rocks/ crystals literally since was 3 years old

Joel Henderson

Can I tell what rock is beneath me by the trees growing on the surface?

Paige McLachlan

Are all rocks beautiful geodes insides?? Or just some of them?

Mark l Gordon

Have rocks "evolved?" meaning, have newer rocks made themselves from more ancient ones throughout the history of the earth?

Sally

Is ceramics just fast rocks? Where we choose the minerals, arrange them, bend them, force them into shapes then apply mega heat? So would they be metamorphic?

Vita Trincali

Tell me everything about glowing rocks. We find them along the shore of Lake Ontario in NY but can they be found away from bodies of water or does proximity to water have something to do with the minerals that make them glow?

Kylie Wash

Okay can minerals themselves be classified as igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary or am I super overthinking this? Are certain minerals more associated with these rock types or is it a total free-for-all?

Ashlee Dent

What are the primary differences between rocks, minerals, and crystals? Also, I’m particularly akin to the mineral group mica (which includes biotite, muscovite, lepidolite, and more.) Do you know more about these minerals and why they’re an insulator and a conductor?

Pacheecha

1st time question asker. What about those crazy massive crystals in Mexico? Are those for real, and if so, why don't we see more of that size rather than the small jewelry sized kind? Are stalactites and stalagmites rocks or something else? Is it flimflam when people bite gold (in the movies) to see if it's real?

Cat Kessler

What effect, if any, will climate change have on geological activity? And what can we learn about the climate from the geological record? (1st time question asker)

Chandler Witherington

Are there any apps that you recommend to help identify rocks? I use the Seek app to identify plants, birds, insects, etc but would love an app that helps identify rocks!

Rachel Kendrick

The tree trunks that get crystallized… does this occur a lot in specific places or is it just the right random combination of things. I think they are so cool!

Cat Kessler

Who decided which rocks were valuable or "precious?" Is it based on rarity, or was it subjectively based on fashion trends at some point in history? (1st time question asker)

Aeriel Belk

How many rocks DO you have in your very cool rock collection and how many fizzle when you drop acid on them?

Lizzie Marr

What is the ABSOLUTE best place in the world to find the coolest or most unique rock formations? I was recently in Bryce Canyon (Utah) and thought that hoodoos were so wonky and cool, but I'm sure there are so many places out there that geologists fawn over!

Anne Barnes

If I want to go on vacation and see cool rocks in the United States, where should I visit?

Rebekah Fitchett

Favorite Mineral! Favorite Rock! Whooo-Hooo Rock Hounds Unite!

Rebekah Fitchett

As a fellow Geologist/Earth Scientist I am super excited!

Rebekah Fitchett

Also: How many fences have you hopped to go collect samples/take a closer look?

Shelby Smith

Favorite rock? Favorite place for rock hunting?

Danae DeJournett

Where did the idea of mysticism around rocks and crystals come from? How are there Etsy shops that are hawking their wares of jasper and amethyst for whatever spiritual cleansing thingy? Also, how are there rock minerals but also the same minerals found in fruits and veggies and whatnot? How did rocks become part of a balanced diet?

Emilee

AHH I’m so excited this is happening. I’m in my final year of a geology degree at Saint Mary’s University in Nova Scotia. I’m hoping to go into geophysics, doing something with plate tectonic research or seismic activity. ANYWAY, I’ve asked a lot of people this question.. do you think the number of rocks on earth is infinite? I think yes but I’ve heard MANY great arguments saying no. Thanks a million!!!!

Aeriel Belk

Schmitty! When does amber actually become a stone and not a resin, and would it actually be able to preserve dino DNA? 🧬

Micki Colbeck

I grew up in Missouri, where fossils were ubiquitous. Here in central Vermont, where I now live, alas, none. I know about orogenies (what a great word) and heating and folding, but really, can't there be fossils somewhere here? I'm feeling the fossil jones.

geo.sassie

Yess!! Seconding this, also I've found a few geologists are super active on socials making some fantastic content to help you learn in small doses! Have a look at rockmanethan, groovygeologist, geoscopy, geobeckly, geologist_rambling, joannasaurus etc on TikTok (I think they all also cross-post to Instagram other than Joanna!). They're all lovely and will often help you ID stuff too 😁😁

BolognaShoes

What is your ‘white whale’ of a find? I’m in Michigan and desperately trying to find a Lake Superior agate bigger than a pea and a greenstone in the wild.

geo.sassie

Jealous of your local geology, lewisian gneiss is one of the coolest rocks in the UK - not just by name but it's OLD like at youngest it's 1.7billion yrs old which is just 🤯! So cool!

Scott Rollen

I think I understand how scientists determine the composition and distribution of rock layers close to the surface - core samples and ultrasonics, correct? But how is the composition of the deep crust, mantle and core determined/estimated?

DebDoesScience

If I was a complete novice to rock ID, where/how would I get started? How do we know what the different layers of the earth are made of? How is seafloor crust different from continental, aside from density?

Alessandra Kempson

Passing this to my brother, the biggest rock nerd I know!!! He would like to hear a description of schist and breccia. They come in many different forms and he'd like a proper description! :)

Jacob Hollingsworth

Wha types rocks/crystals contain toxic compounds? I know malachite is one. Disclaimer: I love geology and horticulture, but I want to study more on ecological toxicology.

McKenna Speed

*First time question asker*. Are geologists finding evidence in support of current climate change models? If so, what is your top concern as climate change relates to rocks and top soils?

Charlotte C

Someone told me diamonds are so expensive because one company has a (unethically obtained) monopoly on the and controls their availability to keep the price high. Is this true? And what's the most ethical way to buy jewelry with precious gem stones?

Emma Doyle

I’ve heard geologist will lick rocks to ID them. What all can you tell from licking a rock? And are there rocks that are dangerous to lick?

Nikki DeMarco

why are some rocks more valuable than others? is collecting rocks from places you visit unethical like collecting seashells?

Molly Elmore

First time question asker! (You're the best, Alie :) ) In college I had a lot of geologist friends (I'm a geography gal, myself) who were really disappointed around graduation time because most of the job postings were for big oil companies. Was this just a reflection of the area we were living in (Southeastern US) or are most geologist positions coming from big oil?

Cole Robertson

Is fossilized wood considered a rock? If so, why does it still look like wood? If not, why hard like rock?

Meghan A

What does geology work look like? Like what kind of jobs are out there once you have your geology degree? Is it a desk job or a field work job or a mix of both?

Koren Taylor

How is the age of soil determined??

Meghan A

Can you tell if a rock is a geode without cracking it open? Do you have to x-ray it to find out or can you just look and know?

Marxe Orbach

Why are some rare minerals valued so highly? Like what is the reason that people love gold and silver etc so much?

FlipChef

First Time Asker

FlipChef

oops obviously since I hit return how many rocks can be identified by taste?

Jules Clement

First Time Asker: we have the bronze age, the iron age, are we now in the plastic age? How are geological eras determined (where are the samples taken)? Also, is the Anthropocene a geological designation? All these eras /ages are confusing... can you clear them up for us?

Mallory Nettleton

Why does my geologist friend always talk about licking rocks?? What is she tasting for??

Catie Noble

I just want to know more about pegmatites! How do they grow so many of the most beautiful minerals and gemstones? How do they themselves form?

Matthew Kimlinger

What are these "time crystals" I keep hearing about?

Mark Hewlette

Do geologists research the predictability of earthquakes? If so, what's the latest?

Jules Clement

follow up question: will all the plastic that we're putting on the planet become a type of rock in the future?

Audrey Ng

How do creatures that need gizzard stones choose their gizzard stones? What is up with gizzard stones??

fraxl

How do you handle it when people ask you about the 'magical properties' of different materials? (FTQA 😅)

Emily Krieger

could you talk a little about petrified wood? is it rock? a mix of rock n wood? thanks!

Kai Kishimoto

What are your favorite geological formations around the world?

Argiope17

What area of the world do you find most interesting to study? Is the gem mining industry as terrible as every other type of resource mining? How is it that fossils are just allowed to be sold at trade shows; shouldn't they be saved for research etc? Can you talk about what you can learn from the erratics found in an area?

Emily Ives

I have a general question about lab-created stones. How is it in relation to naturally occurring rocks/gems? And also: What's the rarest way for a rock to form? Or coolest. I'll accept coolest as well.

Brenda J Truax

When the poles reverse their magnetism what effect will I have on us and nature?

Meg W

How can rocks be different "ages" when it was all formed from the same particles of our orbit? What makes lower layers old?

Shannon Ruhl

But, like, what even are rocks?

Shannon Ruhl

Also, any fun ideas for displaying my novice rock collection? What is your favorite rock collection you've ever encountered?

Natalie Gertz -Young

Geology has all the best jokes. What is your favorite geology joke/pun?

Signe S.

Why does basalt form huge, really iconic columns? And wtf is up with geodes? (First time question asker)

Signe S.

Can we talk about glacial erratics? What's the wildest, most out of place rock the Ologist has seen or heard about?

Signe S.

Is there a difference between a rock and a mineral? What about a gem? What's the difference??

Sarah Jo

Best rock? Interpret this as you please.

Laura Jordens-Harris

Why is gritstone so hard to climb? from, a very frustrated boulderer :(

Imogen Lovell

Is there a chance a long forgotten deadly virus or bacteria could be hidden inside a geode, waiting for an unsuspecting hobbyist to release it, or is this the stuff of science fiction?

Val McKelvey

How does a non-geologist tell what kind of rock they're looking at?

Average_pi

What are the most and least extreme rocks

Fiorelily

Friend and I were walking around Pompeii and I turned and said "oh hey, I have ancient rock dust on my shoes!" But then I realized aren't all rocks/dust/dirt ancient? Like, why do we pay for souvenirs made from volcanic ash, is that dust special in any way?

Keri Overall

Where are the best geodes found?

Ira Gray

Whats with the licking rocks? Is that just a fossil thing?

AlisonCee

What do you think the realistic depth limits would be for drill coring? Would there be anything different to see down at that potential depth than deep samples we can/do already collect? Ty!

Wayne Brantley

Rarest rock/mineral (type) on Earth?

Patrick Shaw

Does a rock tumbler make all rocks look cool? Can you analyze a rock and tell where it came from?

Nana From Canada

Are big companies like DeBeers controlling the number of diamonds on the market in order to keep the price high?

Brittney Corrigan

I recently became obsessed with the Great Unconformity. Any new discoveries about that mystery?

Ann Hanlin

What rock has the strongest magnetic pull? How many different kinds of rocks have been identified? How many are yet to be recorded/found? What’s the prettiest rock? What’s the ugliest rock? What’s are the heaviest and lightest rocks?

Talia S

(First time question question asker) What’s up with geodes? Are they rocks? Crystals? Minerals? Are all of those the same thing?

Luke LaFemina

Which are mountains In the USA? Tetons? San Juan’s in Colorado? Something else?

Shelby Mills

What kind of rocks are consumable (ie nutrients) for humans? What do they look like, feel like, taste like? What's the type of rock that has the most fossils? Or, preserves fossils best? What kind of rocks and minerals do we have in common with Mars? What is the prettiest rock structure?

Andy Beyer

When we harvest "rock" for commercial purposes (like coal, limestone, granite), are we losing any historic or academic value in the materials we are consuming? (Like we do when we tear down rainforests).

Sam Nelson

What's up with zircons? Are there any rocks that are older?

Myrtle Snowball

Here's the set up context: I used to manage one of the United States' best academic geology libraries. I'm not a geogist but I've always been science-minded and I began to absorb knowledge like a sponge. I also developed many cherished friendships with the professors there, including a pair of ancient "odd couple" emeritus(emeritii?) who had worked together for half a century. When the day came for me to leave for a promotion of sorts, one of them left me his recipe for an incredible Italian dish renown in the department, colloquially known as Pasta (professor's nickname), and the other placed an odd split metal ball, about 30 mm in diameter containing what looked like layers of sandy sediment. He winked at me and then held his finger up to his lips conspiratorily and proceeded to teach me the science and history of Moqui Marbles. He said this one was from his personal stache collected from privately owned land at least 40 years ago, so not technically illegal, but while I marvel at its beauty and the unusual processes that create them, and I am very respectful with mine especially after reading of their significance to several Indigenous Tribes, I feel like, ethically, I ought to repatriate it somehow. Am I overreacting? Am I underreacting? I just want to do what is right. Alie here's a link for reference and some science: https://geology.utah.gov/map-pub/survey-notes/glad-you-asked/moqui-marbles/

Myrtle Snowball

Also, first time question asker. 🥺🪨

Wells Howe

Why do rocks rock!?!?

Rachel von Morrigan

Is it just me, or does anyone else search for cool rocks in the creek and keep them? I keep them in little baskets and frequently pull them out and think: Yep. You’re still super cool. Just me?

Emma Wren

When IDing a rock, is step one to lick it?

Sarah Meaden

What's a good gift to get my rockhound dad? He already has a rock tumbler. Please and thank you!

Wayne Halliburton

If this answer is yes, I'd like to issue an apology to the boy in 8th grade who was made fun of for licking a rock and saying "ah yes, metamorphic"

Velociraptor

How are rocks different in other planets? And can ice be considered a rock?

Lauren

Are there any radiation risks with rockhounding?

Paulina Krasińska-Sroka

Slightly silly question: Where's the line between rock and soil?? 😅 I mean, one is hard, other is soft - but there are rock that are kind of soft like coal and chalk, and hard soils like clay. So what gives?

Erik K

Why are some rock bands vertical and others horizontal?

Erik K

What is the best rock name for a (musical) rock band

Mattias Nerde

Metamorphic rocks. Is this mostly found around volcanos, or are they everywhere?

Lothos

I have a friend whose favorite joke is: Q: What’s big and red and eats rocks? A: A big red rock eater!! I’ve never found anyone who thinks that’s funny. Would you please see if a geologist likes it????

Kelly Shaver

Why are geologists always licking rocks?? (Seriously, not a joke.)

Stephanie Leské

What is your favourite ROCK pokémon? & are you upset that there was never a ROCK starter? 🪨

Keri Turner

Rock stacking. I know that ecologists have said it's a no-no for environmental reasons. How does a Geologist feel about it?

katie castañeda

what is the deal with red rocks in colorado? what makes colorado have these magnificent formations?

Gail Erickson

I live in MN- my family adores agates. Are they really that impressive as far as rocks go or do I love a bunch of rock nerds?

Kate Mcphail

First time question asker here. What rock classification would amber be under since it was originally tree sap? I'm guessing either Igneous or metamorphous. Since it seems like it would need either a lot if heat or pressure to be fossilized.

Kate Mcphail

Also how were the 3 rock types, igneous, metamorphic and sedimentary developed in the first place? Are there more types that you only learn when you become a geologist?

Makenna Lawson

Has climate change had any major effects on geology? How about that super earthquake California is supposed to be getting?

Daria Gneckow

I’m a geologist and totally curious how they will cover this huge field of science in one episode !!!

Aaron May

How do geologists determine if sediment layers were deposited over centuries versus years? For example Mount Saint Helens erupting multiple layers of ash.

Pickles

My 4 year-old LOVES rocks. I used to have egg cartons full of rocks as a kid, I loved collecting them! Why do kids live rocks so much? What can I do to help encourage my budding geologist?

Eric Craft

Is the moon geologically active? How long will the earth continue to be active?

Von Thompson-Wynn

So, the rocks that contain ancient water...how old are the rocks? How does the water get in there? What have we learned from that water? Could you drink it? Or is that tempting fate to introduce an ancient bacteria back into the world?

Von Thompson-Wynn

What sorts of rocks can be created in a lab? And outside of gemstones, why would you?

Kimmerjae

Ok here goes. Fringe question: How does science answer the question "do they talk?" I'm a stone carver who also ran a landscape design-build company for a bunch of years. I taught a lot of folks basic stone masonry skills. Anyone worth their salt came to me after a couple of weeks & asked this question: "am I going crazy or do they talk?" My artist answer: "No, you're getting it. Good work." Not all these folks are new-age fruitcakes like me, either. Then there are these accounts of Himalayan monks moving stones with sound. No idea what to make of this, tho physics yields many surprises. I do experience every stone I carve as having a unique personality that goes beyond the characteristics of its particular geology. Here's a recent post on a stone I met 'in the wild': https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=pfbid0bUKgBFVm1w5bMBLeVhQpnmihUyzQrKKuva3x6tgraRvFr7pwWWy6MADm2RgUWzKkl&id=100010667882137

H Bomb Puma Von Allen

What's the best way to display and organize my random rock collection (as someone who has no idea what kind they are just that I NEEDED to pick another one up and put it in my pocket). Also how do you choose to limit your (presumed) rock collecting addiction.

Jackie

Second

Samantha O'Byrne

What are more common: heart or cube shaped rocks.

Kristin Zimmerman

Assuming this category applies to the giant rock we call home: dp you have any examples of planet-scale geological processes that are commonly oversimplified in middle/high school but actually fascinating when looked at with full scope?

Kristin Zimmerman

Can you please explain magnetic reversals? What causes them? Do they have any noticeable impact on the planet besides compasses pointing the opposite direction? How does one examine polarity in rocks and stone tools? I'm imagining rock polarity like magnets: a loose magnet's poles point in different directions depending on which way one holds the magnet. If a rock is no longer embedded in the ground, how does one have enough context to figure out polarity? Why is this useful for looking at where rocks originated, geographically?

Elena Stamatakos

What are some of the current explanations for the Great Unconformity? I recently got to visit a spot in Wyoming where you could see this. It was so cool.

Carissa Perry

Same! I always want to know what to call all the purty rock treasures I encounter, but don’t even know where to start looking for answers. So many rocks!

Donald Merritt

The geology books by John McPhee are my absolute fave books on geology for a general audience. Do you have any books you'd recommend? Before I'm "forced" to read 'Basin and Range' yet again?

Donald Merritt

What is the thinking on why there are no plate tectonics on Venus?

Ruby Chan-Frey

What makes a rock hard or soft? No dick jokes unless they're funny. Is travel to the center of the earth feasible? What makes some rocks so sparkly??? gems etc.

Adam

Are there any rocks that have genuine, scientifically proven healing benefits?

Diane Tarantino

I mean this with all the love in the world, but why does Geology get a bad rap? Ross Gellar (from FRIENDS) (despite his "Geology Rocks sticker on his backpack as a kid) makes fun of Geologists and Sheldon Cooper (from Big Bang Theory) claims that Geology isn't a real sience... Is there any reason why?

River

(First time question asker here!) Please explain columnar jointing! Also joints vs faults - is that just a matter of scale?

Felix Wolfe

How do we know the centre of the earth is magma?

Felix Wolfe

If sand is partially glass, where did that glass come from to begin with

Felix Wolfe

Might be an ignorant question but what makes a crystal vs a rock vs a stone etc

Pavka34

Do you focus on terrestrial geology or are you intrigued by rocks from other planets?

Anika's Cat Arya

What are your thoughts on finding rocks at beaches and 'tumbling' them?

Bridget White

We all know that wind and water can shape rocks but I want to know how trees alter rocks. Their roots get into those tiny cracks and seem to be able to split huge rocks over the decades. What's the craziest alteration a plant has created on a rock?

Bridget White

The Acasta Gneiss in the NWT Canada is the oldest exposed rock formation that we know of. How do we know the age of rocks and how do/did they get to the surface of the earth?

Sharika Elahi

how do you feel about people taking rocks from natural areas? is there ever an issue with people taking too many rocks or fossils from certain areas?

Sara Patton

No question but SO happy about this episode! (I am a geologist <3)

Brooklyn Baron

Question from my household's resident geology nerd: How does cementation work, specifically in clastic sedimentary rocks like sandstone? Soooo excited about this episode!!

Rachel McGill

What is a phone app that people can use to identify rocks/minerals? (E.g., like iNaturalist but for rocks). I want to engage with geology more in my day yo day.

Carla DM 101

What is the rarest type of rock? What is the rarest type of rock formation?