James Cook University Subject Handbook - 2024

EA3110 - Sedimentology and Stratigraphy

Subject Description

This subject addresses the principles of stratigraphy and layering of the Earth, as well as formation of sediments and sedimentary rocks and the processes involved in sedimentary transport, deposition and diagenesis. The subject integrates the study of modern analogs and sedimentary processes across a range of terrestrial, transitional and marine sedimentary environments, and uses this knowledge to help understand and interpret ancient sedimentary rocks. Students will be exposed to analytical approaches and classification schemes for studying common sediment types and sedimentary rocks from these depositional environments. This subject provides an important foundation for the advanced understanding of surface processes and interpreting the layered sedimentary rock record for all Earth Science and Non-Earth Science students

Learning Outcomes

• Acquire a basic knowledge and understanding of key principles of stratigraphy
• Acquire an understanding of the origin of sediments and their classification and genesis
• Understand the processes and mechanisms of sediment erosion, transport, deposition and alteration in a broad variety of geological environments
• Develop an ability to reconstruct ancient depositional environments from the study of the sedimentary rock record based on comparisons with modern analogs
• Understand and apply standard and advanced field and laboratory techniques used in the science of sedimentology and stratigraphy

Subject Assessment

• Written > Examination - In class - (10%) - Individual
• Written > Test/Quiz 1 - (10%) - Individual
• Written > Lab/Practical report - (40%) - Individual
• Written > Examination (centrally administered) - (40%) - Individual

Note that minor variations might occur due to the continuous subject quality improvement process, and in case of minor variation(s) in assessment details, the Subject Outline represents the latest official information.

Inadmissible Subject Combinations:  EA2110

Availabilities