Tephrochronology

A unique resource on a key method for geological dating and correlation

In Tephrochronology: Origin, Characterisation, and Compositional Features of Tephra Deposits, two distinguished earth scientists deliver an insightful and comprehensive introduction to the field of tephrochronology, from its beginnings right up to the practical considerations of obtaining and preparing tephra samples for characterisation and analysis. The book references wide-ranging examples and explains recent advances in tephrochronology, such as fingerprinting methods and related geo-analytical approaches that enable individual small glass shards to be analysed for major, trace, and rare-earth elements.

The book also offers:

• Incisive discussions of the development and principles of tephrochronology, including when it began and the role of the International Commission on Tephrochronology
• Comprehensive explorations of the origin, composition, and dispersal of tephras and their preservation
• In-depth treatments of the tephra and cryptotephra field sampling, analysis and interpretation

Perfect for graduate and advanced undergraduate students in geology, Tephrochronology: Origin, Characterisation, and Compositional Features of Tephra Deposits will also earn a place in the libraries of every researcher studying human evolution and prehistory.