HowStuffWorks Earth Science Guide  Tags: science_explanations science_questions science earth_science solar_system animals animal_facts howstuffworks space videos history earth_beginning history_of_earth rocks minerals gems weather natural_disasters disasters atmosphere water_cycle  

Earthquakes and volcanoes get all the press. But the landslides they trigger are often more devastating. What makes the ground suddenly rip downhill, taking trees and homes with it?

You've probably been spending your summers visiting a barrier island or two and you don't even know it! From Atlantic City to Miami Beach barrier islands are popular vacation spots and amazing ecosystems. Go exploring.

From the archives of Discovery: Over time, these cliffs are worn down into unique formations. Learn more about cliffs and erosion.

From the archives of Discovery: Over time, these cliffs are worn down into unique formations. Learn more about cliffs and erosion in this video.

From the archives of Discovery: These cliffs hide caves the casual explorer might miss. Learn more about cliffs and cave formation in this video.

Reforestation aims to increase the amount of living trees, combating habitat loss and preventing extinction. So, can we really bring a decimated rainforest back to life?

As alternative energy sources sputter to take off on Earth, scientists are turning an eye toward space. What are the most promising celestial options, and when could they be in use?

Recycling is a pretty simple concept: take something that isn't useful anymore and make it into something new. Learn about the process and the good and bad of recycling.

The word "ozone" gets tossed around conversation as casually as a softball, but how many of us could really describe what the ozone layer is? The "hole" in it isn't exactly a hole.