Explore and understand the natural and human wonders of our planet. In its third edition, this iconic encyclopedia celebrates our planet and explains the science behind the forces and processes that created and shaped it. Artistic creations, photographs, terrain models, and maps combine to capture the power of landscapes and natural phenomena, revealing aspects such as the challenge of earthquakes and the management of the climate crisis.

In this book about Earth, you will find:

• More than 3,000 photographs, artworks, and maps
• A 40-page timeline of Earth's history including human evolution and the history of human colonization of the planet
• Sections exploring human impact, from deforestation to population growth
• An atlas featuring unique maps focusing on Earth's seven main tectonic plates

Parts of the book provide systematic and in-depth reference guides to essential scientific information, such as more than 100 types of rocks and minerals. Similarly, visual profiles of some of nature's wonders are included, such as the Andes, the Himalayas, the Grand Canyon, the Sahara, and the Amazon Rainforest.

Revamped and updated to include the latest developments in rapidly changing geology and Earth science fields, this is a classic reference book for anyone wanting to understand how our planet works.