Geology of the Alps

The Alps, with their outstanding outcrop conditions, represent a superb natural laboratory for many geological processes, and have played a crucial role in the history of geology. This book gives an up-to-date and holistic overview of the key aspects of Alpine geology.After a brief presentation of the plate tectonic framework, the rock suites are discussed, starting with the pre-Triassic crystalline basement, followed by Palaeozoic, Mesozoic and Cenozoic sedimentary sequences. The lithological description of the rock types is supplemented by a discussion of their palaeogeographical and plate-tectonic contexts.The book goes on to describe the structure of the Alps (including the Jura Mountains and the Alpine foreland to the north and south) illustrated by numerous cross-sections. Understanding the evolution of the Alps as a mountain chain involves unravelling Alpine metamorphic history to reveal the complexity and timing of orogenic events. The final chapter covers the evolution of Alpine drainage patterns and the region's glacial history.Readership: This book is essential reading for students and lecturers on Alpine courses and excursions, and all earth scientists interested in the geology of the region.
A modern student-accessible textbook on the geology of this classic area Adrian Pfiffner is a recognized expert on Alpine geology Integrates modern research into metamorphism, structure and stratigraphy Full colour throughout and fully updated and expanded revision of 2 nd (German) edition.