Why you need A-level chemistry to study geology

Share this article and accompanying worksheet with your students to show them how their current studies are relevant to real-world careers.

A sound knowledge of chemistry is key to studying geology and earth science, and geochemistry itself is a major branch of geology and forms a part of all degrees accredited by the Geological Society of London. Geology has far-reaching applications, from climate change and oceans to the cosmos and archaeology. Besides the directly relevant earth science curriculum, school students get a flavour of geochemistry in both single chemistry and combined science with other topics such as isotopes and analytical techniques.

In this article, professional geologists describe how chemistry has been essential to their work to show students why an understanding of the subject is key if they want to go on to study geology at degree level.