J.R.L. Allen – författare

At many times in the geological past the climate of the Earth appears to have been significantly different from that at the present time. Some of the consequences of the Quaternary "icehouse" are beginning to be better understood. However, during the Mesozoic era our planet appears to have been generally more equable (a"greenhouse earth"). Crucial evidence for the existence of major continental ice-caps and associated tundra zones is lacking. The purpose of this book is to faciliate the integration of available geological information - the incomplete evidence relating to Mesozoic palaeoclimates - with insights that may be derived from climate modelling of a meteorological character (e.g. GCM's). By such an integration of meteorological and geological approaches future patterns of possible climate change, and the localized consequences of such changes, may be better predicted. The book shows what can begin to be achieved when information, techniques and insights from a wide range of fields are considered together.The juxaposition of climate modelling, geological collations and interrelational interpretations should make this book of particular use to researchers and postgraduate students working and teaching in the broad areas of environmental studies and climate change, as well as others in the more conventional areas of the Earth and atmospheric sciences. This book should be of interest to postgraduates and researchers in earth science, geography and environmental sciences; particularly in palaeoclimatology and climate modelling.

This short introduction aims to provide archaeologists of all backgrounds with a grounding in the principles, materials, and methods of geology. Sections include coverage of main rock-forming minerals and classes of rocks. Geological maps and structures are introduced, and the elements of geological stratigraphy and dating are explained and related to archaeological experience. Fluvial and coastal environments are important archaeological landscapes and their formation processes, sediments and topography are outlined. Stone for building, implement-making, tool-making, and making mortar are all discussed, followed by an introduction to clays and ceramics. A final chapter introduces metallurgical landscapes: metalliferous ores, mining and smelting, and metal-making industries. Each chapter ends with a short reading list, and many have selected case-histories in illustration of the points made. Included is a glossary of technical terms.