Module GL4411: Organic Petrology, Palynology and Palaebotany
| Co-ordinator: | Prof. Geoff Clayton |
|---|---|
| Course Type: | Optional |
| Assessment: | Theory examination (50%), in-course practical & project work (50%) |
| ECTS: | 5 Credits |
| Prerequisites: | GL3306 |
Contact hours & timing:
Weeks 5-10, six hours per week |
Module Learning Aims:
The aims are (1) To gain a basic understanding of organic petrology, - the study of organic matter in sedimentary rocks. (2) To acquire a basic understanding of the main groups of palynomorphs. These will include acritarchs, spores & pollen, and dinoflagellates. (3) To demonstrate the practical use of these fossils in Geology. (4) To investigate the early radiation of land plants.
Module Content:
The evolution and ancestry of vascular plants, and their radiation during Palaeozoic time. Principles of palaeopalynology; acritarchs, prasinophytes, chitinozoa, dinoflagellates, spores and pollen. Geological applications of palynology including biostratigraphy, palaeogeography and determination of depositional environments. Principles of organic petrology. Classification of organic matter in rocks in transmitted and reflected light. Measurement of vitrinite reflectance and its use in determining thermal maturity, thermal history and calculation of palaeotemperature. Colour change in palynomorphs as a means of determining maturity. Assessment of hydrocarbon source rock potential.
Learning Outcomes:
On successful completion of this module students should be able to:
- outline the basic principles and practices of organic petrology and the practical use and techniques of study of palynomorphs and fossil plants
- describe the key diagnostic features of the major plant groups