Our very own geology expert, Rich, is delivering a short tailored Geology Course which includes four workshops. Exploring geological concepts on a different theme each month; Rocks, Time, Life and Structures – linking back to the geology of the English Riviera UNESCO Global Geopark.
Time – dating objects
The second session in January focussed on the theme; time. We learnt how we can date rocks using relative dating by comparing the rock to other rocks in order to decide if it is older or younger. Another method we learnt was ‘absolute dating’ where we measure the physical properties such as radioactive isotopes (radiocarbon dating, K-Ar, uranium) of the object itself and use these measurements to calculate it’s age. If you want to read into this more please visit; https://archaeology.ncdcr.gov/blog/2021-04-14/relative-absolute-dating
Below you can watch one of the videos from the session, which will take you through time by showing you the movements of the plate tectonics from 540Ma to the Modern time.
Life – Charles Darwin’s Finches
Last weekend the focus was on ‘life’ and with enthusiasm, Rich talked about Charles Darwin’s Finches. Charles didn’t realize it at the time, but the most important specimens that he brought back from the Galapagos were finches. Once back in England ornithologists John Gould examined the finches and discovered that Charles had brought back 13 different species of finch, and they were all unique to the Galapagos. This realization played a significant role in Darwin’s formulation of his theory of evolution. The most important differences between the finches were their beaks – some were small whilst others were large. The common theme was the availability to catch food. Their distinctive beaks being an adaptation to distinct natural habitats or environmental niches.
If you are intrigued and want to find out more about Charles Darwin’s Finches, why don’t you head over to this website to read some more; https://www.princeton.edu/news/2017/11/27/study-darwins-finches-reveals-new-species-can-develop-little-two-generations
If you are interested and would like to find out more about our course, please visit our website below.