|
Sedimentary Geology
Prof. G.M. Ashley, Prof. K.G. Miller, Prof. G.R. McGhee. [Prerequisites: 01:460:340, 341.] Topics of current interdisciplinary research in sedimentary geology. Sequence stratigraphy, facies models, sea-level change, unconformities/hiatuses, tectonics, climate change, evolution, mass extinctions.
Syllabus
Lecture
Week # |
Topics |
| THEME 1 |
Sea-level, Facies Models and the Stratigraphic Record |
| 1 |
Modern Facies and facies models. An Overview |
| 2 |
Global sea-level and sequence stratigraphy: Definitions and concepts |
| 3 |
Terrestrial facies models |
| 4 |
Marine facies models |
| 5 |
Statigraphic record of sea-level change: The margin record |
| 6 |
Carbonate facies models |
| 7 |
Stratigraphic record of sea-level change: Atolls, isotopes, unconformities/hiatus |
| 8 |
Tectonics and the stratigraphic record. R.E. Sheridan: Drift basins; active margin basins. R.W. Schlische: Rift basins; Discussion |
| 9 |
The New Jersey record of sea-level change |
| Saturday Field Trip |
Downtown Sayreville pits, Old Bridge Sand Co., gymnasium. |
| THEME 2 |
The Tempo of Earth History |
| 10 |
Geological time; term paper due |
| 11 |
Phanerozoic mass extinctions |
| 12 |
Climate and evolution |
| 13 |
The K/P boundary |
| 14 |
Final Exam |
Required text: Walker and James (1992), Facies Models
Grading: Final exam 60% of grade; 20% discussions; 20% paper. Final will consist of three questions; two on theme 1, one of which will be a comprehensive essay. Paper will be on an approved topic; 10-15 pages @ 1-1/2 line spacing; GSA Bull. format; topics must be approved by faculty; deadline Nov. 15; revised paper Dec. 13. Miller will grade oral participation on theme 1, Olsson on theme 2.
|
