300291 VO Introduction into biogenic and chemical sediments (2024W)

Module aims: Students will gain an overall introduction to aspects of carbonate sedimentology and different types of chemically and biogenically precipitated and modified sediments. We will look at a variety of different modern environments, from reef systems to extensive carbonate platforms, compare the sedimentary facies on the modern Earth surface to those of the ancient record (and explore uniformitarianism in the process). We will look at the origins of micrite, think about microbial sedimentation, reef building processes, diagenesis and learn to understand the lateral and spatial relationships between different facies.

IMPORTANT
For biologists we will examine only the Vorlesungen. However, all students are warmly invited to the the exercises (Uebungen), which take place in the same room as the Vorlesungen after a lunch break each week. More details will be given in the first session. The aim of the Uebungen is to reinforce the "theory" part taught in the Vorlesungen, will allow students to develop critical thinking and judgement, and will expose you to mapping exercises, virtual field trips, hand specimens, thin sections and seismic data. The goal is to gain a first order impression of chemical and biological sedimentary deposits from the large (seismic) to the small (thin section) scale. From our experience when students participate in the Uebungen it provides fresh perspectives, allows for networking with Earth Scientists and is an enjoyable learning experience for all.