JEO 262E - Stratigraphy

Course Objectives

1. Understanding of geologic time and its importance for geological mapping, mining prospecting, hydrocarbon prospecting and exploration;
2. Learning of basic methods of stratigraphic research;
3. Applications of these methods for sedimentary sequences and crystalline rocks depending on local geological conditions and purpose of study;
4. Operation with complicated natural systems.

Course Description

Stratigraphic sequences provide the most comprehensive record of the Earth history. The study of sedimentary rocks is the core of stratigraphy, however metamorphic and igneous bodies are also targets of stratigraphic studies. Shortly, stratigraphy is the art of converting spatial relationships of geologic bodies to their temporal relationships. This course is focused on the methods used in modern stratigraphy. Its first part deals with the basic aspects of sedimentation and lithostratigraphic and biostratigraphic methods. The second part explains well logging studies of sequences, applications of stable isotope fluctuations, seismic and sequence stratigraphy, magnetostratigraphy, and geochronology. Integration of different methods and acquaintance with stratigraphic codes are summarized at the end of the course..