Entry requirements

60 credits in Earth science including Earth Science - Planet Earth 30 credits and Rocks and Quaternary Deposits 15 credits.

Learning outcomes

After passing the course the student should be able to

• understand and explain fundamental sedimentological, stratigraphical and palaeobiological problems
• understand and use the methods applied to analyse the properties of sediments of different age and character
• interpret depositional processes, facies and stratigraphical subdivision in relation to depositional environment, variation in sea level, the tectonic position of the sedimentary basin and the climate
• understand the large-scale physical, chemical and palaeobiological changes during the history of Earth and how these changes can be expressed in the stratigraphy
• be able to practically interpret sedimentary and fossil material in the field

Content

The processes of erosion, transport and deposition of clastic, biogenic and chemical sediments in continental and coastal, and open marine environments. The formation of sedimentary features (e.g. structures, textures, mineralogical compositions) that can be used to interpret depositional environment and facies for litho-, bio-, seismic- and sequence stratigraphy subdivisions and in correlation. The evolution of Earth and the biosphere.

Training in communication is an integrated part of the course.

Instruction

Lectures, seminars, practical exercises and field work. Participation in seminars, practical exercises and field course is compulsory.

Assessment

Written examination (6 credits), as well as a practical part consisting of seminars, practical exercises and oral and written presentation of project work (4 credits).