Monroe and Wicander's new edition of Physical Geology: Exploring the Earth provides a comprehensive overview of the physical aspects of the Earth's processes above, on, and below the surface. In this acclaimed book, the authors link diverse material with the common thread of plate tectonics, an approach that provides a global perspective of Earth and allows geologists to treat many seemingly unrelated geologic phenomena as part of a total planetary system. Monroe and Wicander make the subject fascinating and intriguing as they integrate many environmental and economic geology themes throughout the text. The book helps readers understand the relationship between the multiple physical processes of the earth--a "systems" approach--to instill enthusiasm and to help readers comprehend the concepts of the subject. Monroe and Wicander, both respected scholars and authors, convey the excitement and sense of discovery inherent in the study of geology. This version of the text is packaged with Earth Systems Today CD-ROM, inside every copy of the text.