STRATIGRAPHIC CORRELATION

Petroleum Geology
Lab No. 1
The Lithological Correlation
Correlation is the process of establishing which sedimentary strata are of the same age but geographically
separated. Correlation can be determined by using magnetic polarity reversals, rock types, unique rock sequences,
or index fossils.
 A

C
F
D

E G

A
B
C
D
E
F
H G
Lithostratigraphic Correlation: The methods to be applied for correlation depend on what type of correlation is
needed or possible in various stratigraphic sequences.

Lithostratigraphic correlation of three sites namely A, B and C. Dotted lines indicate correlation. Note that shale
bed is absent at sites A and B, but it is present at site C. Unconformity above the conglomerate bed is marked by
the wavy line.
Biostratigraphic Correlation: Biostratigraphic correlation is based on the fossil content of the rocks.

Biostratigraphic correlation between two sites, namely, A and B. Here the beds are correlated on
the basis of similar fossils