The Cretaceous World - Iain Gilmour

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Résumé :
This textbook on the Cretaceous era explores the interactions between the physical, chemical and biological processes operating within, and at the surface of, the Earth during this extreme period in history. Characterized by high atmospheric carbon dioxide and global warmth, the Cretaceous era is very relevant to future climatic change studies. Designed for use in undergraduate and graduate courses, the text includes chapter summaries, focus boxes, and Questions and Answers throughout. It is supported by a website hosting sample pages, selected illustrations, and exercises.

Sommaire:
Preface; Part I. Survey of the Cretaceous World: 1. Introduction to the Cretaceous; 2. The mobile palaeogeographical framework; 3. Fluctuating sea-level; 4. Changing climate and biota; 5. Changing climate and biota - the marine record; Part II. The Workings of the Cretaceous World: 6. Biogeochemical cycles; 7. Volcanic inputs; 8. The operation of major geological carbon sinks; 9. The lost world rediscovered; Part III. The End of an Era: 10. The end-Cretaceous mass extinction; 11. Seeking an explanation; 12. The 'smoking gun'; 13. The effects of the Chicxulub impact; Acknowledgements; References; Index.