AG-209
The Tectonic and Sedimentary History of Svalbard
(15 ECTS)

Prerequisite: 60 ECTS in natural sciences at university level, whereof 30 ECTS must be within earth sciences

Application deadline: 15. October 2011

Objective:

To offer a thorough understanding of the geological evolution of Svalbard and the Barents Sea from the Precambrian to the Cenozoic, and to use sedimentary, structural and stratigraphic relationships to understand important geological principles.

Content:
In the Svalbard Archipelago there is a well-developed and well exposed stratigraphic record that comprises Precambrian, Late Palaeozoic, Mesozoic, and Cenozoic strata. Based on the extensive research that has been carried out in the area, the course will offer students an understanding of the tectonic and sedimentary evolution of Svalbard and the Barents Sea from the Precambrian to the Cenozoic. Importance is attached to the understanding of the tectonic development and changes in the sedimentary environment over time. The geological evolution of Svalbard will be used to illustrate important geological subjects such as the formation of sedimentary basins, fold and thrust belts, hydrocarbon formation and sequence stratigraphy.

The course will also give insight into coal mining, the mineral resources of Svalbard, and the hydrocarbon potential of the Barents Sea area. Fieldwork and practical exercises on core and seismic data is an important part of the course, during which students will study examples of a large part of Svalbard’s history and receive training in sedimentological, stratigraphic and structural techniques. An independent research project on a topic related to the course content will be carried out during the term and presented as a written report and in a seminar.

Recommended in combination with: AG-204 The Physical Geography of Svalbard