Stratotype

Stratotype

A stratotype or type section in geology is the physical location or outcrop of a particular reference exposure of a stratigraphic sequence or stratigraphic boundary. If the stratigraphic unit is layered, it is called a stratotype, whereas the standard of reference for unlayered rocks is the type locality.[1]

The Khulsan locality, which is the stratotype of the Barun Goyot Formation, Mongolia

Also it can be defined as "The particular sequence of strata chosen as standard of reference of a layered stratigraphic unit."[This quote needs a citation]

When a stratigraphic unit is nowhere fully exposed, the original type section may be supplemented with reference sections covering the full thickness of the unit. A reference section may also be defined when the original type section is poorly exposed, or for historical units which were designated without specifying a type section according to more modern standards.[2]

See also


References

  1. "Stratotypes and Type Localities". International Commission on Stratigraphy. Retrieved 20 August 2017.
  2. North American Commission on Stratigraphic Nomenclature (November 2005). "North American Stratigraphic Code" (PDF). AAPG Bulletin. 89 (11): 1563. Bibcode:2005BAAPG..89.1547.. doi:10.1306/07050504129. Retrieved 8 August 2020.



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