Editing Geophysics (section)

=== Mineral physics ===
{{Main|Mineral physics}}
The physical properties of minerals must be understood to infer the composition of the Earth's interior from [[seismology]], the [[geothermal gradient]] and other sources of information. Mineral physicists study the [[elasticity (physics)|elastic]] properties of minerals; their high-pressure [[phase diagrams]], melting points and [[equations of state]] at high pressure; and the [[Rheology|rheological properties]] of rocks, or their ability to flow. Deformation of rocks by [[creep (deformation)|creep]] make flow possible, although over short times the rocks are brittle. The [[viscosity]] of rocks is affected by temperature and pressure, and in turn, determines the rates at which tectonic plates move.<ref name=Poirier/>

Water is a very complex substance and its unique properties are essential for life.<ref name=Sadava>{{harvnb|Sadava|Heller|Hillis|Berenbaum|2009}}</ref> Its physical properties shape the [[hydrosphere]] and are an essential part of the [[water cycle]] and [[climate]]. Its thermodynamic properties determine [[evaporation]] and the thermal gradient in the [[atmosphere]]. The many types of [[precipitation (meteorology)|precipitation]] involve a complex mixture of processes such as [[coalescence (physics)|coalescence]], [[supercooling]] and [[supersaturation]].<ref>{{harvnb|Sirvatka|2003}}</ref> Some precipitated water becomes [[groundwater]], and groundwater flow includes phenomena such as [[percolation]], while the [[conductivity (electrolytic)|conductivity]] of water makes electrical and electromagnetic methods useful for tracking groundwater flow. Physical properties of water such as [[salinity]] have a large effect on its motion in the oceans.<ref name=Pedlosky/>

The many phases of ice form the [[cryosphere]] and come in forms like [[ice sheet]]s, [[glacier]]s, [[sea ice]], freshwater ice, snow, and frozen ground (or [[permafrost]]).<ref>{{harvnb|CFG|2011}}</ref>