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The AAPG/Datapages Combined Publications Database

AAPG Bulletin

Abstract


Volume: 55 (1971)

Issue: 2. (February)

First Page: 341

Last Page: 341

Title: Geologic History of Oceans: Previous HitIntroductionTop: ABSTRACT

Author(s): William W. Hay

Article Type: Meeting abstract

Abstract:

Only a few years have passed since the concepts of the permanence of continents and ocean basins and the stability of the oceans were widely accepted, and the notion of continental drift was regarded as heresy. Since inception of the programs of deep ocean coring, however, a major new body of data has appeared. Many of the new observations are in conflict with traditional ideas. It has become evident that the oceans have a fascinating and complex history, and the history of ocean chemistry appears to be inextricably interwoven with the development of oceanic organisms. It had been tacitly assumed by many geologists that the oceans constituted a massive buffer system, stabilizing climate and affecting geochemical processes on the surface of the earth and in its atmosphere. Now deep-sea sediments are known to bear a record of dramatic changes, some local, some of worldwide significance. It is the purpose of this symposium to explore new ideas which are being generated, and to provide a synthesis of the present state of knowledge concerning the history of the oceans.

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