Everything a geologist needs to be successful in the field.
In an earlier article on Strike & Dip, I described the use of a compass and clinometer to make measurements in the field. No geologist should be without this useful tool. You can purchase a compass that also includes a clinometer with it, the best ones are made by Brunton and Silva. Or you can purchase a compass and make your own clinometer out of a protractor. See my Strike & Dip article for details on making your own clinometer.
The reason a geologist goes out to the field to work is to collect data about the geology. The entire trip would be a waste if no data was collected about the rocks the geologist was studying. Therefore, several other tools are necessary for a geologist to use. The first is a notebook or anything to write notes, comments, and measurements in. Any type of notebook will do, but I like using small, log-type notebooks. They are compact and can fit in my back pocket so as to be in easy reach when I need it. Once you have the notebook, you need something to write in it. A good selection of pencils and pens is needed. I like to use pens when I'm in the field since I don't have to worry about sharpening. Plus, when a geologist is working on something that is potentially sensitive, or working for a larger company, by using a pen they can insure that their notes won't be accidentally erased leaving a clear record of all the comments made. Along with writing pens, it's important to take several permanent markers. These are needed to write the sample or collection numbers of the rocks when collected. Without recording on the rock and in the notebook the sample number, then the sample is useless for study when you return to the lab. The other item needed for collecting data is a good measuring tool. A good tape measure, at least 10 feet long, is needed to measure the thicknesses of layers within an outcrop. I prefer a 25 foot tape measure since you never know when the extra feet will be needed. For smaller measurements, a good ruler with well defined markings on it is useful for measuring the size of a fossil, or for being used as a scale marker when taking photographs.
For testing rock and mineral samples, its important to carry a
Latest Articles