Imagine that you’re a geologist. This means that you study rocks, minerals, and the natural processes that happen beneath the Earth’s surface. You are sent to study this volcano in Hawaii. You’ll have to learn about the volcano, why it erupts, and when it erupts. You will also have to learn about how the volcano affects the people, plants, and animals that live nearby. Which of the six essential elements of geography would you be using? Explain your answer in at least three sentences.

This means that you study rock minerals, and the natural processes that happen beneath the earth's surface.

If I were studying this volcano, I would be using the element of geography called “physical systems.” This is because I would be studying the Earth’s natural systems.  I would be figuring out how this volcano works and why it erupts. I might also be using the element of geography called “environment and society.” I would be learning about how this volcano affects the societies and people that live nearby.  This volcano is part of the environment, and it is going to affect people's lives.