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Petrologist
A petrologist is a geologist who focuses on the structure, history and composition of rocks and rock formations.
What they do:
- They are very involved in the mining industry and also interested in economically important materials such as gold, uranium and copper, contained in certain types of rock.
- They usually work in teams with other specialists in the same field, such as geologists and hydrologists.
- They are not only interested in rocks; they also study the composition and formation of metals, minerals and even precious stones.
Through their studies of the earth’s crust and rock, minerals, stones and the other substances it contains, petrologists can also gather quite accurate information about the history of the earth. Weather patterns, the flow of water and volcanic activity are but a few aspects revealed by the various layer of the earth.
Where to study:
Universities: UFS, UP, UCT, Wits, RU
Companies to work for:
Mining companies, government, educational institutions, weather bureau, research institutions
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