Stratigraphy: Modern Synthesis: A Comprehensive Guide to Unraveling Earth's History

Stratigraphy: A Modern Synthesis

by Andrew D. Miall

4.8 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	74197 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	471 pages

FREE

In the vast tapestry of Earth's history, the study of stratigraphy holds the key to unlocking the secrets of our planet's geological past. Andrew Miall's Stratigraphy: Modern Synthesis serves as a comprehensive guide, offering a panoramic view of this captivating field, from the fundamental principles to the latest scientific advancements.

Chapter 1: Foundations of Stratigraphy

Miall introduces the foundational concepts of stratigraphy, including the principles of uniformitarianism and superposition, which provide the framework for understanding how sedimentary rocks form and accumulate over time. He delves into the different types of sedimentary rocks, from clastic deposits like sandstones and shales to chemical precipitates like limestones and evaporites, providing detailed descriptions of their textures, compositions, and depositional environments.

Chapter 2: Stratigraphic Analysis

Moving beyond the classification of sedimentary rocks, Miall guides readers through the techniques used to analyze and interpret stratigraphic sequences. He covers field methods for measuring and describing rock formations, along with laboratory techniques for analyzing fossils, petrography, and geochemical data. These methodologies provide critical insights into the depositional history and paleoenvironmental conditions of ancient environments.

Chapter 3: Sequence Stratigraphy

Delving into the realm of sequence stratigraphy, Miall explores the larger-scale architecture of sedimentary basins. He explains the principles of sequence stratigraphy, from identifying depositional sequences and systems tracts to reconstructing the history of sea-level changes and tectonic events. These concepts are essential for understanding the formation of petroleum reservoirs and other economically valuable geological features.

Chapter 4: Basin Analysis

Expanding the scope from individual stratigraphic sections to entire sedimentary basins, Miall examines the factors that control basin formation and evolution. He discusses tectonic processes, subsidence mechanisms, and sediment supply, providing a holistic understanding of how basins develop over time. By studying basin architecture, geologists can reconstruct the tectonic history of a region and assess its potential for hydrocarbon and mineral resources.

Chapter 5: Paleontology

Fossils, the preserved remains of ancient organisms, play a crucial role in stratigraphy. Miall covers the principles of paleontology, from taphonomy to biostratigraphy, providing a foundation for interpreting the fossil record and reconstructing past environments. He discusses the different types of fossils, their ecological significance, and how they can be used to establish a geologic time scale.

Chapter 6: Correlation and Time Scales

Stratigraphy relies heavily on correlation, the process of establishing temporal relationships between different rock sequences. Miall explores the various methods of correlation, including biostratigraphy, magnetostratigraphy, and chronostratigraphy, which allow geologists to piece together the geological history of a region over vast distances and time intervals. These techniques provide the framework for constructing geologic time scales, the backbone of Earth's history.

Chapter 7: Applications of Stratigraphy

The knowledge gained from stratigraphy has far-reaching applications in various fields. Miall discusses the use of stratigraphy in petroleum exploration, mineral resource assessment, environmental geology, and archaeological investigations. He highlights how an understanding of Earth's history can inform decision-making in these areas, ensuring sustainable resource utilization and mitigating geological hazards.

Chapter 8: Frontiers of Stratigraphy

In the final chapter, Miall looks ahead to the future of stratigraphy. He examines emerging technologies and research frontiers, such as high-resolution imaging techniques, stable isotope geochemistry

Stratigraphy: A Modern Synthesis

by Andrew D. Miall

4.8 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	74197 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	471 pages

FREE