This Oceanus article describes the work of Greg Hirth, a geologist studying rock deformation and crystallography. It discusses how rocks deform as a function of pressure and heat (called rheology) and includes a short section about the possibility of microbial life in the heat and pressure-induced cracks between crystals. Hyperlinks to related articles are contained within the text of the article. The article also features a list of related links and color images of rocks and minerals under a microscope.
This resource is referenced here:Subject:
Geoscience:Geology:Structural Geology:Microstructures, Deformation Mechanisms, Fabrics,
Geoscience:Geology:Geophysics:Mineral Physics,
Biology:Microbiology,
Ecology:Habitats:Within Rock,
Marine
Resource Type:
Scientific Resources:Overview/Reference Work
Grade Level: Graduate/Professional, High School (9-12), College Upper (15-16), College Lower (13-14)
Extreme Environments: Anoxic, Extremely Hot, High Pressure
Ocean Environments:
Deep Sea Floor/Abyssal:Hydrothermal Systems, Deep Sea Floor/Abyssal
Theme:
Teach the Earth:Course Topics:Structural Geology,
Ecology,
Geophysics
Keyword: endolith