Assignment 4

Geologic Correlation

 This assignment is to illustrate how geologists correlate drilled-hole information to make subsurface
geology.
 Correlation - Constructing a cross section, a vertical slice or panel of the subsurface rocks, by correlation
is used to find gas and oil traps. Correlation is the matching of rock layers from one well to another. When
a well is drilled, a record of the rock layers in the well is made on a well log. The rock layers between well
logs are correlated to make the cross section (fig. 12–5). The correlation is started with a marker bed or
key horizon. A marker bed is a distinctive rock layer that is easy to identify. Volcanic ash layers; thin beds
of coal, limestone, or sandstone; and fossil zones are good marker beds. A key horizon is the top or
bottom of a thick, distinctive rock layer. After correlating the marker bed or key horizon, the rock layers
above and below the maker bed or key horizon can then be correlated on physical similarity and their
position in the sequence of layers. Lines are drawn along the contacts, the boundaries between rock
layers. In areas complicated by faulting, facies changes, or unconformities.

 A fence diagram is used to show how wells correlate in three dimensions (fig. 12–9). The diagram is
arranged like a map. North is at the top, south at the bottom, east to the right, and west to the left. Each
well is located (spotted) on the map. The well log for each well is drawn vertically under the well’s position.
The rock layers are then correlated from one well log to another. Each set of correlations forms a panel.
The entire diagram is called a fence diagram.

 Correlation and complete the cross-section. One of the result is shown in the bottom. Then answer
questions.
Each section shows the vertical sequence of strata present in the outcrop. Only four kinds of rock are
considered: sandstone, shale, limestone, and chalk, which for the purposes of this exercise are assumed to

Page 1
be deposited from shorelines to far offshore in that lateral order. In addition, layers of volcanic ash (bentonite)
are indicated where they are present, and radiometric ages are given for three specific occurrences of such
material. Occurrences of specimens of six species of fossils are also shown on the sections.
The marker beds are the deposits that should have deposited over large areas in a short period of time.

 Which way (to the left or right) was landward, and which way was seaward?
 How many cycles of rising and falling sea level are evident from your cross-section?
 During which geologic period were the sediments in this cross-section deposited?
 How old is the fossil labeled "A"?
 How old is the fossil labeled "B"?
 How old is the layer of rock labeled "C"?

Page 2