Ge 112a: Sedimentology and Stratigraphy
Course Description Ge 112a is 12 units (3-5-4) and is offered during the first term. Prerequisite: Instructor’s Permission. A lecture and lab course that provides an introduction to the production, transport and deposition of sediments, and the formation of sedimentary rocks. Physics and chemistry of sedimentary materials. Scale and geometry of near-surface sedimentary bodies. Survey of major sedimentary rock types and deposition in modern environments. Analysis of depositional systems and facies architecture, including seismic data interpretation. Several field trips explore depositional systems. Meeting Time and Place Lectures will take place on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10:00-11:30am in 267 Arms. Additionally, there will be lab meetings on Wednesdays 2:00-5:00pm in 267 Arms. Website Reading assignments, lab, and field trip handouts may be available on the website: http://www.gps.caltech.edu/classes/ge112a/ Textbook There is not an official textbook for the course, but it is recommended that students get a good sedimentology and stratigraphy book for reference. We recommend Sedimentology and Sedimentary Basins by M. Leeder or Principles of Sedimentology and Stratigraphy by S. Boggs. Labs There will be several in-class labs and several field trip labs during the course. Field Trip There will be a weekend field trip to Death Valley November 12-14, 2010. A write up will be due after the field trip. Final Examination The final will be handed out during the last week. All work must be turned in before the end of finals week. Individual Work Policy Each student is to perform his or her own work. If you are stumped, oral discussion among students is permitted. Grading The final letter grade will be composed of 25% labs, 25% field trips, 25% midterm, and 25% final. Lab and field trip reports are expected to be handed in on the due date. Late work will be penalized 10 points per day (you may ask for an extension if you are ill and have a written doctor’s note). Office Hours Lauren will hold office hours per request. If you have questions, email ledgar@caltech.edu to set up a time. http://www.gps.caltech.edu/classes/ge112a/http://www.ahttp://www.amazon.com/Sedimentology-Sedimentary-Basins-Turbulence-Tectonics/dp/0632049766http://www.amazon.com/Principles-Sedimentology-Stratigraphy-3rd-Boggs/dp/0130996963112a%20Lectures%20and%20Labs.htmlmailto:ledgar@caltech.edushapeimage_2_link_0shapeimage_2_link_1shapeimage_2_link_2shapeimage_2_link_3shapeimage_2_link_4