Definition: Lithology is the branch of geology concerned with the physical characteristics and composition of rocks. It involves studying the visual and microscopic features of rocks to identify and classify them. Lithology covers aspects such as mineral content, grain size, texture, and color, and is crucial in understanding the earth’s geologic history and for various practical applications like oil and gas exploration.
Etymology and Origin: The term ‘lithology’ is derived from the Greek words ‘lithos‘, meaning ‘stone’, and ‘-logy’, meaning ‘study of’. Its usage in English dates back to the early 19th century. The study of lithology grew as a scientific discipline with advancements in microscopy and chemical analysis, allowing for more detailed and accurate characterization of rocks.
