Reference no: EM133207100 , Length: Word count: 3 Pages
Assignment Task: Visit the interactive map of the Geology of Georgia recently created by our very own Dr. Mobasher here at IESA at the University of Georgia:
Please use Google Chrome for best results. Answer the following questions using the map.
1. Georgia Physiographic Provinces is divided into four distinct regions with differing landforms and geographies. From west to east, what are they?
2. What is the age range of the rocks from the most western province? What dominant rock type makes up this region and what fossils, if any can be found there?
3. The next province is given a distinct name because of the geological features one can find in this region. What are these structures and how do they give rise to the name of this region? Think back to last week where we learnt about the development of the Southern Appalachian mountains. At this time, North American collided with what supercontinent to begin the process of mountain building in this region?
4. Moving eastward, rocks of this next province is considered to be the oldest rocks of the southeast US. What rock type dominate this province? Deformation of this area happened when North America collided with what plate?
5. Commonly called 'the foothills', rocks of this province is sometimes mistaken with the previous province, what is it? This region is ridden with mafic dikes that is typically associated with continental rifting. Describe the tectonic process occurring in this region at this time to result in the formation of these mafic dikes.
6. The most eastern province consists of younger, sedimentary units. What are the source of the sediments in this region? List 5 examples of invertebrate and vertebrate fossils found in this region.
7. Visit Stone Mountain. What type of rock is Stone Mountain made up of? Stone Mountain is is a large exfoliation dome. Elaborate on the type of weathering that forms exfoliation joints.
8. Visit the Brevard Fault Zone. What are the major structural features of this zone? What are boudins and how do they form? Sketch and annotate this feature.
9. Visit the Cumberland Plateau. What rocks make up this region? How old are they and what depositional environment do they represent? Limestone commonly underlies the low areas in this part of Georgia. How does this relate to the formation of caves in the areas? Most brachiopods became extinct at the end of the Paleozoic era. Describe the characteristics of brachiopods and how you can distinguish them from bivalves.
10. Visit the Kaolin Mine in Sandersville GA. Describe the geological environment and the shape of the landscape then that gave rise to these large kaolin deposits.
11. What event or events marks the start of the Anthropocene? What are some impacts, both positive and negative that humans have had on Earth during this time period? Now that you have a better understanding of Geologic time, what do you think this means for the future of the planet?