GMEG - Geology and Geophysics
| The science of stratigraphy is essential to unraveling the history of geologic processes over time, such as the rate of movement of faults, the history of flooding and stream migration changes, the frequency of volcanic eruptions and the extent of their impact, and much more. Geologic mapping is fundamental to resolving geologic history (the age of rock units and ongoing changes to the landscape over time). Associated with geologic mapping activities are investigations into geochronology using advanced whole rock and trace element, radioisotope, and isotopic geochemical signature analyses, and other methods to determine the age of earth materials and the rate of processes effecting earth materials. The G & G supports a Tephrochronology laboratory (Tephrochronology is the study of volcanic ash deposits, combining petrology, geochemistry, and isotopic dating methods). The G & G also has a paleomagnetism laboratory that provides fundamental information for geochronology, particularly in volcanic and igneous regions such as the Cascades, the Columbia River Basin region, and elsewhere. Paleontology (the study of fossils) is also an important component with geologic mapping and geochronology research. Paleontological research involves both microscopic remains (micropaleontology) and plant and animal fossils (megafossils), particularly marine fossils. |  |
| Combined Quaternary stratigraphy and geomorphic profile of the central Mojave region, CA. Click on image for a larger view. | |
Learn more about tephrochronology and chronostratigraphy. See selected references for recent G & G research on tephrochronology, chronostratigraphy, stratigraphy research, paleontology investigations |
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U.S. Department of the Interior |
U.S. Geological Survey
URL: http://geomaps.wr.usgs.gov/capabilities/stratigraphy.html
Page Contact Information: GMEG Webmaster
Page Last Modified: 17-Dec-2012@13:30
