Sedimentary Dynamics

This module is an in-depth course in sedimentology that includes a lecture component and a practical field component. After an overview of the mechanisms of sedimentary record formation, hydrodynamic processes, and associated sedimentary features and structures, the various environments of terrigenous detrital and carbonate deposits are reviewed by surveying the sedimentary landscape from upstream to downstream.

Proficiency in facies sedimentology with a high level of expertise in both clastic and carbonate sediments. Ability to analyze facies sequences at various scales and constrain sedimentary architectures and associated processes in order to reconstruct depositional environments as accurately as possible and predict facies partitioning within an economic framework (reservoirs, caps, traps).

Courses in Sedimentary Geology and Tectonics (L2) and Sedimentary Rocks and Surface Transport (L3), or their equivalents.

Continuous assessment: consists of 4 fieldwork grades, one for each of the four workdays, and 1 written exam grade.

For each environment, the course covers a geomorphological analysis of the structures, an analysis of the associated depositional processes, a study of typical sequences and recognition criteria at various scales, classifications of the different types of structures, and finally their seismic and logging signatures. Each lecture is supplemented by a presentation of the most notable samples from the collections.
Fieldwork closely follows the course content. They provide a practical application of the concepts introduced in class. Four days (8:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.) are scheduled for this purpose. These are not field trips but rather focused studies of notable outcrops, selected to best illustrate the various depositional systems, for which a report is required:
(1) Lacustrine, proximal fluvial, and eolian systems (Permian–Triassic of the Lodève Basin);
(2) Distal fluvial systems and mixed coastal systems (Rhaetian–Lias of the southern edge of the Larzac);
(3) Storm-silt ramp and turbidite systems (Ordovician–Visean on the southern slope of the Montagne Noire);
(4) Barred carbonate platform system (Upper Jurassic, Argelliers).