Ideas and concepts in sedimentology are changing rapidly but fundamental field work and data collection remain the basis of the science. This book is intended as a guide to the recognition and description of sedimentary rocks in the field. It aims to help the geologist know what to observe and record and how best to interpret this data.
The emphasis is on illustrating the principal types of sedimentary rocks and the book contains over 400 superb colour photos and drawings. The introductory chapter defines the main types of sedimentary rock and their initial recognition, followed by a section highlighting safety in the field. The author goes on to describe the main field techniques and provides a comprehensive summary of the principal characteristics of sedimentary rocks. There is a chapter on each of the main rock types and on how to interpret facies and their features in terms of depositional environments and economic significance.
This book is of value to students, amateur enthusiasts and professional geologists.
Preface
Acknowledgements
Introduction
Field techniques
Principal characteristics of sedimentary rocks
Conglomerates
Sandstones
Mudrocks
Carbonate rocks
Cherts and Siliceous sediments
Phosphorites
Coal
Evaporites
Ironstones
Soils, palesols and duricrusts
Volcaniclastic sediments
Interpretation: depositional environment and economic significance
Biography
Dorrik A.V. Stow
A much needed addition to the literature of sedimentology…the photographic images are impeccable…contains a grain size comparator chart at the front and a sediment description checklist at the back…as a tool in the field kit this book is excellent for professional geologists, teachers, students and amateur enthusiasts.
—Sedimentary Geology
Deserves to be in the Christmas stocking of every earth sciences student in the land - and further afield…plaudits will undoubtedly accumulate for this book…the production values are also quite exceptional and the whole design and production team at Mansons deserve our warmest congratulations…tells students everything they need to keep in mind when they are examining and describing sedimentary rocks.
—The Palaeontological Association Newsletter
An excellent and really beautiful book…More than a field guide.
—Journal of Sedimentary Research
