Undergraduate - UnitESC3411 - Sediments, basins and resources

Refer to the specific census and withdrawal dates for the semester(s) in which this unit is offered.

Synopsis

Sediments: will deal with sediments from a global to microscopic scale, examining the main types of clastic and chemical sediments, their provenance and influences on their mode and environment of deposition. Basins: will examine the variety of sedimentary basins, how they develop and fill, and include aspects of seismic interpretation, well logging and subsidence histories. Resources: will study the generation and accumulation of hydrocarbons and the formation of coal deposits.

Outcomes

On completion of this unit students will have a knowledge of: the different types of sedimentary basins and how they are filled; the main types of clastic and chemical sediments, how they are derived and the influences on their accumulation; what different sediments look like in natural field outcrops, and how sedimentary features can be used to determine depositional environments and stratigraphic sequences; the basic principles of seismic interpretation and well logging and how different stratigraphic and structural features can be recognised; the principles of hydrocarbon generation, migration and accumulation; environments in which peat accumulates and the formation of coal deposits; preparation of reports based on field observation, laboratory exercises and personal research.

Assessment

Practical work: 30%
Field work: 20%
Test (3 hours - theory and practical): 50%

Students must pass the theory examination to achieve an overall pass grade. Students who do not pass the theory examination will receive a mark of 45% unless their aggregate mark is lower, in which case that mark will be recorded.

Chief examiner(s)

Dr Fabio Capitanio

Contact hours

One 2-hour lecture and one 3-hour practical class each week, and one day field excursion

Prerequisites

ESC2111 and ESC2122, or by permission from the Head of School

Prohibitions

ESC3211, ESC3241