ESC3142

Sedimentary geology, palaeontology, stratigraphy

(SCI)

Professors Ray Cas and Patricia Vickers-Rich

6 points + Two 1-hour lectures and one 3-hour practical per week + Second semester + Twelve weeks lecture/practical coursework + field excursion + Clayton + Prerequisite: ESC2011 + Prohibitions: ESC3011, ESC3022, ESC3051, ESC3062 (refer to department for advice)

Synopsis: The sedimentary component reviews textural and compositional aspects of terrigenous, carbonate and volcaniclastic sedimentary rocks, and then applies this to palaeoenvironmental reconstruction. The origins of basins and the influences of tectonics and climate are addressed. Finally the unique aspects of Precambrian sedimentology, volcanology and stratigraphy are introduced. Palaeontology/Palynology and vertebrate/conodont micropalaeontology includes principles of biostratigraphy and assessment of hydrocarbon potential and palaeoecology.

Assessment: Practical work: 20% + Problem set: 10% + Seminar presentation: 10% + Lecture exams (2): 40% + Final examination: 20%