Indian Stratigraphy and Marine Geology
8 videos • 27 views • by Geology Indian Stratigraphy refers to the study of rock layers (strata) and layering in India, focusing on geological time periods and the sequences of rock formation in various parts of the country. Marine Geology, on the other hand, involves the study of geological features and processes in marine environments, including the seabed, coastal regions, and underwater formations. ### Indian Stratigraphy Overview: India's stratigraphy is divided based on geological eras, including the Archean, Proterozoic, Paleozoic, Mesozoic, and Cenozoic periods, which are significant in mapping Earth's history. - **Archean**: Represents some of the oldest rocks on Earth, found in the Dharwar Craton, Banded Iron Formations (BIFs), and the Singhbhum and Bundelkhand Cratons. - **Proterozoic**: Includes important sedimentary sequences like the Vindhyan Supergroup, which is significant for understanding early life and geological processes. - **Paleozoic**: Records the development of Gondwana basins like the Damodar and Son-Mahanadi valleys, containing significant coal deposits. - **Mesozoic**: Marked by the deposition of Gondwana sediments, marine transgressions, and important fossil sites like the Jurassic beds in Kutch. - **Cenozoic**: Dominated by Himalayan orogeny and sedimentary sequences like the Siwalik group, with significant contributions to India's petroleum resources. ### Marine Geology in India: India's marine geology includes studies of the continental shelf, slope, and deep-sea regions. Key areas include: - **Western and Eastern Continental Margins**: These margins hold evidence of tectonic activity, sedimentation, and resource deposits like oil and gas. - **The Andaman and Nicobar Islands**: Important for understanding the tectonics of the Indian plate and its interactions with the Eurasian plate. - **Marine Sediments**: Studies focus on processes like sediment transport, submarine canyons, and coastal erosion, which are crucial for understanding past sea-level changes and the Indian monsoon's influence. Both fields contribute to understanding India's geological evolution, resource potential, and natural hazards like earthquakes and tsunamis.