Sedimentary Systems and Processes

Learning Outcomes

Learning Outcomes

Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:

• Laboratory investigation of sediment characteristics.
• Be able to make logical deductions about the origin and depositional environment of a suite of sediments based on their various characteristics.
• Be conversant with the chief attributes by which sediments are described and classified.
• Be conversant with the principle environments in which sediments are deposited and be able to identify these in the geological record on the basis of their distinguishing features.
• Be aware of the main methods by which sedimentary data is gathered in the field, and then analysed in the laboratory.
• Understand the processes by which sediments are eroded, transported and deposited.
• Field recognition of sediments and sedimentary rocks, and the ability to make logical deductions about the origin and depositional environment of a suite of sediments based on their various characteristics.
• Understand basic fluid mechanics relevant to sedimentary processes, and how these interact with sediment to form erosional and depositional features and bedforms.
• Awareness of the main methods by which sedimentary data is gathered in the field, and subsequently analysed in the laboratory.

The course begins with an introduction to fluid - sediment interactions, including erosion, deposition and bedform development. Most of the course is spent considering the full spectrum of sedimentary environments from continental environments to deep-water. We will consider the processes that operate in each environment and the characteristics that enable them to be distinguished in the rock record.

The practical component and field excursion examine modern processes and sediments as well as ancient sedimentary rocks.

Teaching and learning methods

Formal lectures (24 x forty-five minutes): will provide an introduction to fluid-sediment interactions and the characteristics of sedimentary environments from continental sediments to deep water

Laboratory Classes: will investigate sediment characteristics and analytical methods.

Fieldwork: will develop teamworking and analytical skills by recognition of sediments and sedimentary rocks.

A wide range of support is available for those students who have further or specific learning and teaching needs.

Resources & Reading list

Textbooks

Gary Nichols. Sedimentology and Stratigraphy.

Summative

This is how we’ll formally assess what you have learned in this module.