Publisher's Synopsis
The recent major changes in sedimentary geochemistry resulted from quantification of relevant processes. The more rigorous descriptions challenge some conventional wisdom but are testable by predictive models. Many of the results were reported in diverse journals. Here in one volume the whole range of topics from controls on sediment input to its deep burial in sedimentary basins is covered by a series of chapters by experts in each field. The authors review recent advances but emphasize state-of-the-art developments, for example: extent of preservation of carbonate production in shallow shelf environments; in situ quantification of microbial community structures; rate of early diagenetic precipitation; constraints on large scale fluid movement in basins; prediction of diagenetic self-organization on a number of scales. This work allows the researcher to view the sedimentary system holistically, identify areas with apparent inconsistencies and define a new focus for new research. In many cases reference is made to the practical applications of the work, particularly in respect of environmental, hydrological or petroleum industry problems.;This book is intended for petroleum geologists, sedimentologists, geochemists, postgraduate level.