Dolomite Classification and Origin in the Silurian Brassfield Formation of Northern Kentucky

Presentation Type

Poster/Portfolio

Presenter Major(s)

Geology, History

Mentor Information

Patricia Videtich, videticp@gvsu.edu

Department

Geology

Location

Kirkhof Center KC 83

Start Date

13-4-2011 9:00 AM

End Date

13-4-2011 10:00 AM

Keywords

Environment, Physical Science

Abstract

The Silurian Brassfield Formation is dominated by dolomite, which initially formed as limestone in a reef-associated depositional environment, and is exposed in Kentucky, Tennessee, Ohio and Illinois. Although the formation is found throughout this region, only an exposure in northern Kentucky will be quantitatively analyzed. Classification of three samples from this outcrop will be made by performing 300 point counts of thin sections. Specifically, crystal size and shape of dolomite will be quantified. These data may suggest the temperature at which the dolomite formed, and therefore its origin. Initial visual analysis suggests the majority of the dolomite crystals are planar-subhedral to euhedral. Fossils have also been identified, mostly in a chert nodule from the Brassfield.

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Apr 13th, 9:00 AM Apr 13th, 10:00 AM

Dolomite Classification and Origin in the Silurian Brassfield Formation of Northern Kentucky

Kirkhof Center KC 83

The Silurian Brassfield Formation is dominated by dolomite, which initially formed as limestone in a reef-associated depositional environment, and is exposed in Kentucky, Tennessee, Ohio and Illinois. Although the formation is found throughout this region, only an exposure in northern Kentucky will be quantitatively analyzed. Classification of three samples from this outcrop will be made by performing 300 point counts of thin sections. Specifically, crystal size and shape of dolomite will be quantified. These data may suggest the temperature at which the dolomite formed, and therefore its origin. Initial visual analysis suggests the majority of the dolomite crystals are planar-subhedral to euhedral. Fossils have also been identified, mostly in a chert nodule from the Brassfield.