Presents information from the primary abiotic forces defining the system, and from the present hydrology, biogeochemistry and physics of major sites of organic carbon production of the McMurdo Dry Valleys. Additionally, research on the physical, chemical, and biological properties of the dry valley soils is included. The role of environmental management in long-term ecological studies is also addressed. The accompanying CDROM provides details and scale to visualize the McMurdo Dry Valleys from an ecosystem perspective.
Encyclopedia of Geology, Second Edition presents in six volumes state-of-the-art reviews on the various aspects of geologic research, all of which have moved on considerably since the writing of the first edition. New areas of discussion include extinctions, origins of life, plate tectonics and its influence on faunal provinces, new types of mineral and hydrocarbon deposits, new methods of dating rocks, and geological processes. Users will find this to be a fundamental resource for teachers and students of geology, as well as researchers and non-geology professionals seeking up-to-date reviews of geologic research. Provides a comprehensive and accessible one-stop shop for information on the subject of geology, explaining methodologies and technical jargon used in the field Highlights connections between geology and other physical and biological sciences, tackling research problems that span multiple fields Fills a critical gap of information in a field that has seen significant progress in past years Presents an ideal reference for a wide range of scientists in earth and environmental areas of study
This Special Publication combines results obtained by interdisciplinary groups from numerous academic institutions working on Paleoproterozoic formations to decipher the origins of the main mineralization resources in the West African Craton (WAC) and their impacts on African economic development. Structural, geophysical, sedimentological, stratigraphical, geochemical, petrophysical and mineralogical analyses have been used to highlight the complexities involved in mineralization emplacement and its origin and evolution within the WAC. Fourteen articles contribute to new knowledge in mineral research. They show that the geodynamic evolution of the WAC is complex from one area to another: it involves subduction, collision and obduction during several deformation phases ranging from Birimian (2.3–2.0 Ga) to Pan-African (650–450 Ma) events. Various modelling techniques, when integrated, help in understanding the mechanisms of mineralization emplacement, some of which are still a matter of debate. The challenge for further studies is mitigation for sustainable development that can be appropriately used to minimize such damage.
This book addresses the origin of gold deposits to answer questions of science and curiosity. These answers contribute in turn to the improved exploration and mining of gold. Initially there is a summary of the methods used to address the genesis of gold deposits including some of the essential science and concepts. Five basic observations follow that apply to many gold deposits and need to be considered in any genetic ideas. Magmatic processes enriching gold are discussed followed by the role of aqueous fluids during gold deposit formation at elevated temperatures and pressures. Modifying effects after deposit formation include high-grade metamorphism, retrogression, weathering, and erosion. The main types of gold deposits are then explained within the spectrum of viable genetic ideas, with informal names for these examples that include gold-only, gold-plus, Carlin, slate-belt, epithermal, porphyry, iron oxide copper gold, and Archean greenstone. Case histories are included in which the role of gold geology contributed directly to discoveries—one example is at the province-scale and another at the goldfield-scale. Unlike other books on the subject, this one addresses virtually all gold deposit types rather than focusing on one type in isolation. The primary readership includes industry geologists, senior undergraduates, postgraduates, and those with some knowledge of science and an interest in the gold industry.
