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Basic Geology Concepts

Basic tools of a geologist rock hammer, sample bag, and Brunton compass.
Basic tools of a geologist rock hammer, sample bag, and Brunton compass.

The study of ancient reefs requires a understanding of some basic geologic concepts. These pages contain background material that will help you understand our detailed coverage of Silurian reefs.

Photo Gallery

A chart of geologic time from the Paleozoic Era (541 million years ago) to present. Colors are based on the standard color codes used by geologists today. Keep an eye out for the Silurian Period 444-418 million years ago...
© The Field Museum - CC BY-NC
Basic tools of a geologist rock hammer, sample bag, and Brunton compass.
© The Field Museum - CC BY-NC