Sediments and sedimentary rocks cover 70% of the Earth's surface, and make up a significant portion of the geological record. Understanding the processes (physical, chemical and biological) that lead to formation of sedimentary material is key in disciplines ranging from geology to environmental science to archaeology. But before interpretation must come observation and identification: Stow's Field Guide is a must-have for this distinctly visual process

Professor Stow has culled his extensive research experience into a succinct guide designed for students and professionals in geophysics, geochemistry, paleontology, soil sciences, environmental sciences and more. Sections on field techniques and reader-friendly descriptions also make this guide accessible to amateur geologists.

* More than 400 color photographs and diagrams
* Extensive cross-referencing for ease of use in the field
* Examples from more than 30 countries
* Focus on economic applications

This fourth edition builds on the success of previous editions and for the first time is produced in full colour throughout with improved photos and diagrams. It retains its popular pocket size and is an essential buy for all students working in the field.

The text shows how sedimentary rocks are tackled in the field and has been written for all those with a geological background. It describes how the features of sedimentary rocks can be recorded in the field particularly through the construction of graphic logs. In succeeding chapters the various sedimentary rock types, textures and structures are discussed and shown how they can be described and measured in the field. There are expanded sections on trace fossils and volcaniclastics along with updated reference list. Finally a concluding section deals briefly with facies identification and points the ways towards facies interpretations, and the identification of sequences and cycles.

Key Features:

• Full colour throughout with improved photos, figures and diagrams in a modern layout.
• Complete revision and update of best selling textbook which is part of the highly successful Field Guide series.
• Expanded sections on trace fossils and volcaniclastics along with updated reference list.
• Handy pocket size with laminated cover.
• Includes supplementary website with downloadable logging sheets for fieldwork activities.

The two primary areas of study - sedimentary rocks and stratigraphy - are presented in this sleek, complete and up-to-date undergraduate text. Background principles in chemistry, physics and structure are introduced as needed, so that the authors' lean, lively approach and focus on soft rock geology principles are preserved. The book contains the latest information on sequence stratigraphy and seismic stratigraphy. "This year's best introductory text in sedimentology." New Scientist, 1996

This textbook outlines the physical, chemical, and biologic properties of the major sedimentary rocks, as revealed by petrographic microscopy, geochemical techniques, and field study. It covers the mineralogy, chemistry, textures, and sedimentary structures that characterise sedimentary rocks, and relates these features to the depositional origin of the rocks and their subsequent alteration by diagenetic processes during burial. In addition to detailed sections on siliciclastic and carbonate rocks, it also discusses evaporites, cherts, iron-rich sedimentary rocks, phosphorites, and carbonaceous sedimentary rocks such as oil shales. This second edition maintains the comprehensive treatment of sedimentary petrography and petrology provided in the first edition, and has been updated with new concepts and cutting-edge techniques like cathodoluminescence imaging of sedimentary rocks and backscattered electron microscopy. It is ideal for advanced undergraduate and graduate courses in sedimentary petrology, and is a key reference for researchers and professional petroleum geoscientists.

Rise and Fall of San Diego tells the prehistory of the San Diego area as recorded in the layers of sedimentary rocks. The land here has risen and fallen independently from the sea level which also has risen and fallen. The ever-changing landscapes and animal life through time are examined in this book. Numerous field-trips direct the reader to key localities to observe and understand the history stored in the rocks. Author Patrick L. Abbott has been a Professor of the Department of the Geological Studies, San Diego State University for the last 20 years. Over 60 articles in various publications and more than 20 published books have given him a deserved reputation as a prolific author and a recognized authority on the geology of San Diego County. He is a popular lecturer and field-trip guide who is frequently called upon by the media to interpret geological phenomena to San Diego residents.

The earlier editions of this book have been used by successive generations of students for more than 20 years, and it is the standard text on the subject in most British universities and many others throughout the world.

The study of sediments and sedimentary rocks continues to be a core topic in the Earth Sciences and this book aims to provide a concise account of their composition, mineralogy, textures, structures, diagenesis and depositional environments.

This latest edition is noteworthy for the inclusion of 16 plates with 54 colour photomicrographs of sedimentary rocks in thin-section. These bring sediments to life and show their beauty and colorful appearance down the microscope; they will aid the student enormously in laboratory petrographic work. The text has been revised where necessary and the reference and further reading lists brought up-to-date. New tables have been included to help undergraduates with rock and thin-section description and interpretation.

• New 16-page colour section will mean students do not need to buy Longman Atlas
• All illustrations redrawn to higher standard
• Complete revision of text - new material on sedimentary geochemistry, etc

Includes expert analysis of the key rock-forming environments of the world, plus advice on identifying rock types and building a spectacular collection.