Introducing Sedimentology

Sediments and sedimentary rocks are essential for understanding the Earth and its environments. Sedimentology is the study of sediments and sedimentary rocks, covering different types, structures, and deposition environments. It is important for economic resources and the low-carbon energy transition, and is written for students, amateur enthusiasts, and professional geologists.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 128 pages
Publication date: 24 August 2023
Publisher: Dunedin Academic Press

Sediments and sedimentary rocks play a vital role in our understanding of the Earth and the diverse environments that shape its surface. With approximately 70% of the Earth's rocks originating from sedimentary processes, it is highly likely that we will encounter sedimentary rocks or related sedimentary processes in our daily lives.

Sedimentology, a branch of geology, delves into the study of sediments and sedimentary rocks. It encompasses various aspects, including the classification of sedimentary rocks, the formation of sedimentary structures, and the environments in which sediments are deposited.

In addition to its scientific significance, sedimentology holds great economic importance. Sediments, which are the byproducts of geological processes, are rich in valuable minerals, fossil fuels, and groundwater resources. Understanding the formation and distribution of sediments can help locate and exploit these resources, contributing to economic development and sustainability.

Introducing Sedimentology, a comprehensive textbook, aims to provide a foundational understanding of sedimentology for students, amateur enthusiasts, and professional geologists. Written in a concise and accessible style, the book is richly illustrated with numerous explanatory line diagrams and color photographs.

Chapter 1 introduces the concept of sediments and sedimentary rocks, explaining their formation, composition, and classification. It discusses the various types of sedimentary rocks, such as carbonates, clays, and sandstones, and their formation mechanisms, including weathering, erosion, and deposition.

Chapter 2 explores the formation of sedimentary structures, including stratification, bedding, and cross-bedding. It discusses the factors that influence the development of these structures, such as depositional environment, tectonic activity, and biological processes.

Chapter 3 delves into the environments of deposition of sediments, including continental, coastal, and marine environments. It discusses the characteristics of each environment, such as the types of sediments deposited, the depositional processes, and the resulting sedimentary structures.

Chapter 4 discusses the application of sedimentology in the search for valuable economic resources. It explains how sedimentary rocks can be used to locate and extract minerals, fossil fuels, and groundwater. It also highlights the role of sedimentary rocks in carbon sequestration and the low-carbon energy transition, where they play a key role in subsurface storage of carbon dioxide and hydrogen.

Chapter 5 concludes the textbook by summarizing the key concepts covered in the previous chapters. It encourages readers to further explore the field of sedimentology and its applications in various industries and fields, such as geology, environmental science, and engineering.

In conclusion, Sediments and sedimentary rocks are fundamental to our understanding of the Earth and the diverse environments that characterize its surface. Sedimentology, as a branch of geology, plays a crucial role in exploring and exploiting valuable economic resources, as well as contributing to the low-carbon energy transition. Introducing Sedimentology provides a comprehensive and accessible introduction to the science of sedimentology, making it an invaluable resource for students, amateur enthusiasts, and professional geologists alike.

Weight: 394g
Dimension: 220 x 222 x 10 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781780461021
Edition number: Second