In this episode we learn geologists’ dirty secret: they lick rocks. More importantly, we learn about Moab’s iconic arches, of which there are thousands in the surrounding desert. In our conversation with Jeff Moore, a professor of geology and geophysics at the University of Utah, and Riley Finnigan, a Ph.D. candidate in the Department of Geology and Geophysics, we learn how Utah’s rock arches are formed, why they’re examples of perfect engineering through geology, why Delicate Arch is such an improbable thing, and how rock arches sing! It’s geology like you’ve never heard it before! :)

The hosts of Utah Unearthed include Aidan Bailey, an NHMU school outreach coordinator, Dr. Randy Irmis, NHMU’s curator of paleontology, and Andy Connolly, a former NHMU science communications specialist who now works with the Kansas Geological Survey. The show is produced and edited by Mark Johnston. Series logo by Will Shepherd.

In each episode of Utah Unearthed, the team interviews a different scientist from a different discipline, who will help both hosts and listeners unearth Utah’s incredible natural history. This podcast supports NHMU's mission to illuminate the natural world and the place of humans within it. Learn more at ⁠nhmu.utah.edu/podcast⁠.