Authorised by Academic Registrar, April 1996
Objectives On the completion of this subject students will be able to characterise sedimentary processes and their products in marine and terrestrial environments; review the interpretation of past depositional environments; describe the relationships between depositional environments and tectonic processes.
Synopsis This subject deals with the characterisation of sedimentary processes and their products in present day marine and terrestrial environments. Interpretation of past depositional environments from the textures, structures, and mineralogy of sedimentary rocks. Relationships between depositional environments and tectonic processes. Consideration of large scale stratigraphic relationships and changes in sediment types through time. A brief look at fossil groups important in drawing biostratigraphic and palaeoecological inferences. Emphasis is given to Pre-Cambrian and Palaeozoic faunas, especially stromatolites, trace fossils, graptolites and brachiopods.
Assessment Examinations (2 hours): 65% + Practical work/Fieldwork: 35%