Sand

Scientific American Library Series #24

by Raymond Siever

Explains how sand is formed, describes its role in geological processes, and discusses sandstone, sand dunes, beaches, and sand as a raw material

Genres: Science, Nature

237 pages, Hardcover

First published August 1, 1988

Reviews

[Al · Rating 4 out of 5]

One reviewer called this a coffee table book for geologists; possibly, but I learned quite a bit from it. The writing was clear and easily understood. It starts by describing the mineral composition of sand and where it comes from and how it travels. There is an excellent chapter on continental margins and turbidity currents, which leads into reading plate tectonics from sand. The second to last chapter describes oil traps formed by faults in permeable and impermeable bedding structures. I found the entire book fascinating, and well worth the time and effort to read. Its profusely illustrated, with a bibliography organized by chapter.

[Jon Wlasiuk · Rating 2 out of 5]

A coffee table book for geologists.

[David · Rating 3 out of 5]

Full book report.