ClimateSeptember 4, 2026

petrography

puh-TRAHG-ruh-fee

Definition

The branch of geology that focuses on the detailed description and classification of rocks, typically through microscopic examination.

Etymology

Derived from the Greek words 'petra' (rock) and 'graphein' (to write or describe), the term was adopted into English in the 19th century to describe the systematic description of rock characteristics.

In the news

The term is listed among the specific areas of expertise held by professor Alina Shchepetkina, highlighting her professional background in geological study methods.

Venice Lagoon provides living laboratory for researchers studying climate change

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Phys.org

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